Slow Cooker Chicken Korma with Rice is the ultimate comfort dish, featuring tender chicken simmered slowly in a rich, creamy, fragrant sauce infused with spices, yogurt, coconut milk, and aromatics. This recipe brings the depth and warmth of traditional Indian korma to your kitchen with minimal effort—simply add everything to the slow cooker and let time work its magic.

The result is a silky, mildly spiced curry that melts in your mouth and pairs beautifully with fluffy, steamed rice. It’s a perfect blend of convenience and authentic flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or slow, cozy weekends.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it achieves restaurant-level flavor with almost no hands-on cooking. The slow cooker gently cooks the chicken until it’s unbelievably tender while allowing the spices, garlic, ginger, and creaminess to meld into a luscious sauce.

It’s satisfying, aromatic, and truly comforting. The versatility is another advantage—you can adjust spice levels, improve richness, or substitute ingredients depending on your preferences. It’s also an excellent make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it delivers depth of flavor without complexity. Whether you’re new to Indian-inspired dishes or already love aromatic curries, this mild yet luxurious korma will win you over instantly. The slow cooker simplifies the cooking process while ensuring the spices bloom fully.

It’s kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and budget-friendly. Plus, it’s protein-packed, balanced, and can easily be customized. Few recipes are as comforting, fragrant, and foolproof as this slow cooker korma.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4–5 hours on high or 6–7 hours on low
• Total Time: 6–7 hours

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 420 calories per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Indian-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Chicken Korma

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup plain yogurt (full-fat preferred)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 2 tablespoons korma curry paste OR homemade spice blend (see notes)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup cashews or almonds, blended into a paste with ¼ cup water (optional for richness)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

For Serving

• Cooked basmati rice
• Extra cilantro
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Place chicken, onions, garlic, ginger, and spices into the slow cooker.
2. Add yogurt, coconut milk, tomato puree, oil, salt, and cashew paste.
3. Stir gently to coat chicken evenly.
4. Cover and cook on high for 4–5 hours or low for 6–7 hours.
5. Once done, taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve hot over steamed basmati rice.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep the Base

1. Chop onion, mince garlic, and grate ginger.
2. Blend cashews with water to make a paste if using.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

1. Add chicken pieces to the bottom.
2. Add onions, garlic, ginger, spices, and salt.
3. Pour in yogurt, coconut milk, tomato puree, and oil.
4. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook

1. Cover with the lid.
2. Cook on high for 4–5 hours or on low for 6–7 hours.
3. Stir once halfway if possible.

Step 4: Final Adjustments

1. If sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
2. If too thick, add a splash of coconut milk or broth.

Step 5: Serve

1. Fluff cooked basmati rice.
2. Serve korma over rice.
3. Garnish with cilantro.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve over basmati rice or jasmine rice.
• Add naan, roti, or parathas on the side.
• Pair with a simple cucumber raita or fresh salad.
• Top with toasted nuts or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots, peas, or cauliflower.

Recipe Tips

• Use chicken thighs for the most tender and flavorful results.
• Don’t skip yogurt; it adds creaminess and tang.
• Add spices early to bloom their flavors.
• Blend nuts for richness if you want a more luxurious sauce.
• If using chicken breasts, check for doneness early to avoid drying out.
• Pre-sautéing onions and spices enhances flavor but is optional.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add green chilies or extra chili powder.
• Vegetarian Version: Use paneer, tofu, or chickpeas.
• Tomato-Free Version: Omit tomatoes and increase yogurt and coconut milk.
• Nut-Free Version: Skip cashew paste and add extra cream or coconut milk.
• Low-Calorie Version: Use low-fat yogurt and light coconut milk.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on stovetop or in microwave; add extra coconut milk if sauce thickens.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores beautifully and tastes better the next day.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (4- to 6-quart)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Blender (for cashew paste, optional)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Rice cooker or pot for rice

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use coconut yogurt instead of plain yogurt.

Can I use store-bought korma paste?
Absolutely. It simplifies the recipe and produces excellent results.

Why did my yogurt curdle?
Use full-fat yogurt and avoid stirring too aggressively. Curdled yogurt still tastes fine.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes. Potatoes, peas, carrots, or cauliflower work well. Add them at the beginning.

Can I thicken the sauce?
Simmer uncovered or add a cornstarch slurry.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Korma with Rice is a deeply flavorful, creamy, comforting dish that requires minimal effort yet feels luxurious and special. With its tender chicken, aromatic spices, and beautifully rich sauce, it brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or cozy evenings when you want a delicious, hands-off dish. Easy to customize and always delicious, it’s a timeless favorite worth making again and again.