Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma Recipe

If you’re craving a rich, creamy, and flavorful curry that combines the perfect balance of spices with tender chicken, Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma offers a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s a hit for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma is a modern twist on the classic Indian curry, known for its velvety texture and aromatic spices. The dish features tender chicken simmered in a luscious coconut-based sauce that is gently spiced with cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric.

Unlike some other curry dishes, this one is mild yet flavorful, with the creaminess of coconut milk and yogurt creating a luxurious sauce that envelops the chicken. It is perfect for those who prefer a less fiery but deeply aromatic curry, making it an ideal choice for family meals or gatherings. The dish is accessible, made with everyday ingredients, and delivers a satisfying balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken thighs – Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal as they stay juicy and tender when cooked.
• Onion – Finely chopped to create a flavorful base.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves, minced for that aromatic punch.
• Ginger – Fresh ginger for a warm, slightly peppery depth of flavor.
• Ground almonds – These lend richness and thickness to the sauce, enhancing its creamy texture.
• Coconut milk – A creamy and mild coconut milk that forms the heart of the korma sauce.
• Greek yogurt – Adds richness and tanginess, complementing the sweetness of the coconut milk.
• Spices – Ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, and garam masala to provide depth and complexity to the dish.
• Cinnamon stick – For warmth and sweetness, cinnamon adds an extra layer of fragrance.
• Cardamom pods – Slightly sweet and aromatic, cardamom enhances the korma’s overall flavor.
• Vegetable oil – Used for sautéing the onions and aromatics.
• Salt – To taste.
• Fresh cilantro – For garnish, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich curry.
• Lemon juice – To add a hint of acidity and balance out the richness.

Equipment Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Large frying pan or skillet – Ideal for sautéing the chicken and creating the base for the sauce.
• Chopping board – For chopping onions, garlic, and ginger.
• Sharp knife – To cut and prepare the chicken and other ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the curry to ensure even cooking.
• Measuring spoons – To accurately measure the spices and seasonings.
• Lid – A lid to cover the pan while simmering the curry, helping to keep the heat in and ensure the chicken cooks through.
• Serving dish – To present the finished korma before serving.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma is an easy and satisfying process, perfect for a cozy meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, and ginger finely. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Measure out all your spices and other ingredients.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add a little vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
4. Add the spices: Sprinkle in the ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices, cooking for another minute to release the aromatic oils.
5. Create the sauce: Add the ground almonds to the pan, stirring to combine. Pour in the coconut milk and Greek yogurt, mixing well to form a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Simmer the chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring to coat it in the sauce. Add the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods. Cover the pan and let the curry simmer gently for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and become tender.
7. Final touches: Once the chicken is cooked through, check the seasoning and adjust with salt if necessary. If you like, squeeze in a little lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
8. Serve: Remove the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods. Garnish the chicken korma with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or naan.

Expert Tips

• Make it ahead: Korma tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge, reheating gently before serving.
• Adjust the heat: If you want a spicier korma, feel free to add some chopped green chilies or a pinch of chili powder along with the spices.
• For a richer sauce: You can add a splash of cream to the coconut milk to make the sauce even richer and more indulgent.
• Vegetarian option: Swap out the chicken for vegetables such as cauliflower, potatoes, and carrots to make a delicious vegetarian korma.
• Fresh herbs: Garnishing with fresh cilantro not only adds color but also enhances the flavor with its fresh, herby notes.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma is the epitome of comfort food, blending the richness of coconut, the warmth of spices, and the tender succulence of chicken in a creamy, mild curry. Its balance of flavors and easy preparation make it an ideal dish for any home cook looking to create a satisfying meal for family or friends. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a go-to for cozy, flavorful dinners.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma recipe is already a deliciously creamy, aromatic, and flavorful dish. However, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to explore various variations that can suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or availability of ingredients. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Vegetarian Version (Vegetable Korma):
   If you’re looking for a meatless option, replace the chicken with a medley of vegetables such as cauliflower, carrots, peas, and potatoes. The cooking process remains the same, but these vegetables will absorb the fragrant spices and creamy sauce, creating a wholesome vegetarian alternative. You can also add tofu or paneer (Indian cheese) for extra protein and texture.

2. Spicy Chicken Korma:
   For those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals, consider adding extra green chilies or a teaspoon of red chili powder to the sauce. You can also try using garam masala with a bit more heat or add crushed dried red chilies for a smokier flavor. This variation brings a fiery contrast to the richness of the dish, creating a balance of spice and creaminess.

3. Coconut Milk Chicken Korma:
   For a more tropical twist, substitute the cream with coconut milk. This will give the korma a lighter, dairy-free texture while infusing it with a subtle coconut flavor. Coconut milk pairs wonderfully with the spices in a korma and can be a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet.

4. Chicken Korma with Cashews and Raisins:
   One of the signature features of a traditional chicken korma is the sweet and savory balance. Enhance this by stirring in some cashews and raisins toward the end of cooking. The cashews will provide a crunchy texture, and the raisins will add a burst of sweetness that complements the rich, spiced gravy.

5. Low-Calorie Chicken Korma:
   If you’re looking to make a lighter version without sacrificing flavor, use low-fat yogurt in place of cream or opt for a reduced-fat coconut milk. You can also swap regular oil for a minimal amount of olive oil to cut back on calories while still maintaining the korma’s signature creamy texture.

6. Korma with Ground Almonds:
   Ground almonds are often used in traditional Indian kormas to thicken the sauce and add a nutty richness. Instead of using cream, add ground almonds or almond flour to the sauce. This will not only make your korma rich and creamy but also give it a unique nutty flavor that elevates the dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you’ve made a big batch of Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma and find yourself with leftovers, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its flavor and safety. Here are some best practices for storing leftovers:

1. Cool the Dish Quickly:
   Before storing your leftovers, allow the Chicken Korma to cool down to room temperature. It’s important to avoid leaving the dish out at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent bacteria growth.

2. Use Airtight Containers:
   Transfer the cooled korma into airtight containers. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids work best as they are non-reactive and help preserve the flavors better than plastic containers.

3. Refrigeration:
   Once packed, store the korma in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you plan on keeping it longer, it’s a good idea to freeze it.

4. Freezing:
   If you want to keep the Chicken Korma for a more extended period, freezing is an excellent option. You can freeze the dish in individual portions to make reheating easier. Make sure to leave some room at the top of the container for the sauce to expand as it freezes. Chicken Korma can be frozen for up to 3 months.

5. Reheating:
   When reheating, it’s best to do so slowly over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to avoid separating the sauce. If the sauce appears too thick after being refrigerated or frozen, add a splash of water or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency. Ensure the dish is heated through thoroughly to avoid any food safety issues.

What Goes Well With Chicken Korma?

Chicken Korma is a rich and flavorful dish, and pairing it with the right sides can elevate the entire meal experience. Here are some great options to accompany your Chicken Korma:

1. Rice:
   Traditional basmati rice is the best pairing for Chicken Korma. Its light, fluffy texture complements the creamy sauce, allowing you to soak up every bit of flavor. For a twist, you could also try saffron rice, which adds an aromatic depth to the dish.

2. Naan Bread:
   Soft, warm naan bread is a must-have side for any curry, especially Chicken Korma. The bread’s slightly crispy edges and tender interior are perfect for dipping into the creamy korma sauce. Garlic naan or butter naan adds extra flavor and richness to the meal.

3. Raita:
   A cooling raita made with yogurt, cucumber, and mint can help balance the spices in the Chicken Korma. The creamy, tangy raita provides a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors and is a perfect complement.

4. Roasted or Grilled Vegetables:
   Roasted or grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and cauliflower can add texture and earthy flavors to your meal. These veggies work well with the creamy chicken korma and can make the dish even more satisfying.

5. Pickles and Chutneys:
   Indian pickles (achar) and chutneys can add a burst of flavor to your meal. Try mango chutney or a tangy lime pickle to bring in some acidity and sweetness to counterbalance the richness of the korma.

6. Salad:
   A simple salad of fresh greens with a light lemon dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish. Adding some onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers can also add a crunchy texture to your meal.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma is an incredibly versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re making it spicier, swapping out ingredients for a vegetarian version, or opting for a lighter alternative, the key to a successful korma lies in balancing the rich and creamy texture with the fragrant spices.

Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can enjoy the dish for days, and pairing it with the right sides like naan, rice, and a refreshing raita can enhance the meal even further. With these variations and tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy this comforting dish in many delightful ways!.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s chicken korma typically includes skinless chicken breasts or thighs, onions, garlic, ginger, ground almonds, coconut milk, natural yogurt, a korma curry paste, cilantro (coriander), and rice for serving. Optional garnishes may include flaked almonds and lime wedges.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma Spicy?

No, chicken korma is generally a mild curry. Jamie Oliver’s version is rich and creamy with a gentle warmth from the korma paste but without the intense heat found in other curries like vindaloo or madras. It’s suitable for people who prefer milder dishes.

Can I Use Store-bought Korma Paste In Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?

Yes, Jamie Oliver often uses store-bought curry pastes in his quick recipes to save time. He recommends good-quality korma paste for authentic flavor, but you can also make your own from scratch if preferred.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma Vegetarian?

Absolutely. You can replace the chicken with paneer, tofu, or a mix of vegetables like cauliflower, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas. The rest of the recipe stays largely the same, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma?

The recipe is designed to be quick and typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, including prep time. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

What’s The Best Side Dish To Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma?

It pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it with a cucumber raita or a simple salad to balance the richness of the curry.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma?

Yes, chicken korma freezes well. Cool it completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving, preferably on the stove.

Is Yogurt Or Cream Used In Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma?

Jamie typically uses natural yogurt in his chicken korma to create a creamy texture without being overly rich. Some versions may also include coconut milk or ground almonds for extra creaminess.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, this dish actually improves in flavor if made ahead of time. You can cook it the day before, store it in the refrigerator, and gently reheat it when ready to serve.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Korma Gluten-free?

The base recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you use a certified gluten-free korma paste. However, always double-check labels on packaged ingredients to ensure there are no hidden sources of gluten.