If you’re craving an Indian-inspired meal that’s bursting with flavor yet gentle on the waistline, this Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. It masterfully blends tender chicken with fragrant spices and a creamy sauce—without the heaviness of traditional versions. The balance of rich aromatics like garam masala, ginger, and garlic alongside light dairy substitutes creates a comforting and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Not only is it satisfying and wholesome, but it also comes together in under an hour, making it truly accessible for home cooks aiming to enjoy a restaurant-worthy curry without guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white pan with many small pieces of raw chicken mixed with yellow spices and bits of onion scattered throughout. A woman's hand is stirring the chicken with a wooden spoon, causing some slight motion blur. The pan is on a smooth white marbled surface. The chicken pieces are pale pink with orange-yellow seasoning coating them unevenly. The pan has two short white handles on each side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering just the right ingredients is the first step to making this Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe shine. Each one plays a crucial role, from building the layers of spice to creating that luscious, smooth texture we all love in a korma.

Low calorie cooking spray (or 1 tbsp ghee + 2 tbsp vegetable oil): Helps cook the aromatics without excess fat while ensuring a silky finish if opting for full-fat.
2 onions, very finely diced or blitzed: Forms the sweet, savory base of the sauce, softening to perfection over gentle heat.
3 large garlic cloves, grated or minced: Adds a warm pungency essential to the classic flavor profile.
2 tbsp very finely grated fresh ginger: Introduces a bright, zesty note that lifts the richness.
900 g (2 pounds) diced skinless chicken thighs or breasts: The star protein, tender and ready to soak up all the spices.
3 tsp sweetener such as Splenda or Sukrin (or sugar): Just enough sweetness to balance the spices and deepen the sauce’s flavor.
2 tsp mild curry powder: The aromatic backbone of the dish, blending warmth and earthiness.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
1 tsp ground coriander: Adds a gentle citrusy undertone.
1 tsp ground cumin: Brings a smoky, nutty depth.
1 tsp ground turmeric: Gives the curry its inviting golden color and subtle complexity.
½ tsp garam masala: The quintessential Indian spice blend for that authentic finish.
¼ tsp chilli powder: Offers a touch of heat without overwhelming the dish.
4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed (optional): Imparts an exotic floral aroma for extra sophistication.
1 cinnamon stick: Adds warmth and a subtle sweetness that lingers in the background.
120 ml (½ cup) passata or tinned tomatoes blitzed to a purée: Provides acidity and body to the sauce.
240 ml (1 cup) hot chicken stock (broth): Enhances savory depth and helps build the sauce consistency.
1 tsp cornflour (cornstarch) diluted in 2 tsp cold water: Used to thicken the sauce perfectly—just the right amount to coat the chicken.
200 g (7 oz) fat free fromage frais (or yogurt) or 80 ml (1/3 cup) single cream & 80 ml (1/3 cup) UHT coconut cream: This is what makes the dish indulgently creamy while keeping it light.
2 tbsp chopped coriander (cilantro): Adds freshness and a burst of herbaceous flavor at the end.
Salt and pepper, to taste: For final seasoning tweaks to bring out every nuance of flavor.
Handful red grapes, halved (optional): Provides a surprising, sweet contrast when used as a garnish.
Handful flaked almonds (optional, not Syn Free): Offers delightful crunch and richness if you want to elevate the presentation.

How to Make Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by spraying a large pan with low calorie cooking spray or add your ghee and vegetable oil if you prefer a richer flavor. Gently cook the finely diced onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger over low heat for about five minutes. Stir constantly to soften the onions until they become tender and fragrant, which lays a flavorful foundation for the curry. Taking your time here really allows those aromatics to bloom beautifully.

Step 2: Toast Spices

Next, stir in your spice mix—mild curry powder, salt, sweetener, ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, garam masala, and chilli powder—plus the lightly crushed cardamom pods if using. Cook for a couple of minutes but be cautious not to let the spices burn, as that can impart bitterness. If the pan starts drying out, splash in some chicken stock to keep things moist. This step is critical as it unlocks the complex layers of spice that make this Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe so irresistible.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the diced chicken and the cinnamon stick to the pan. Stir and fry for about five minutes, ensuring each piece is well coated in the aromatic spices. This initial sear seals in juices while building flavor, creating tender bites that soak up the sauce later on.

Step 4: Simmer the Curry

Pour in the passata and hot chicken stock, bringing everything to a lively simmer. Lower the heat and let the curry cook gently for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and avoid sticking. This simmer melds all the flavors together and cooks the chicken through, giving you that perfect harmony of rich, comforting curry.

Step 5: Finish with Creaminess

Stir in the cornflour slurry followed by the fat free fromage frais or your chosen cream substitutes. Cook over very low heat for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is fully cooked. Add the fresh chopped coriander, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. This creamy finale transforms the dish into the luxurious and velvety Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe we all love.

How to Serve Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe

A blue-green textured bowl on a white marbled surface holds a layered dish with a base of light brown rice, topped with chunky pieces of golden yellow curry with visible herbs and dark grapes, sprinkled with thin white almond slices. A silver fork with a black handle rests inside the bowl. Two woman's hands with dark red nail polish and a small tattoo on the left wrist hold the bowl. To the top right, a white bowl filled with the same golden yellow curry with grapes is partially visible. To the top left, there is a small decorative silver cup with red chili flakes and scattered almond slices around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an exciting twist, try garnishing your korma with halved red grapes that add a juicy pop of sweetness alongside some crunchy flaked almonds for texture. These subtle toppings elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, turning an everyday meal into something special and festive.

Side Dishes

Serving this Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe with fluffy plain basmati rice is classic, as it soaks up the lovely sauce beautifully. Pair it with steamed or sautéed speed vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans for a vibrant and nutritious plate. If you want to sneak in more greens, stir in spinach at the very end to wilt it gently into the sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or gathering, serve portions of the korma in individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh coriander and a few grapes or nuts on top for a colorful flourish. Alternatively, layer the curry over a bed of turmeric rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option. Adding a dollop of yogurt on the side can also add cooling contrast and creaminess.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe keeps nicely in the fridge for 2 to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for easy lunches or dinners when you need something quick and tasty.

Freezing

Because this recipe uses dairy or cream, freezing the complete dish can cause some separation. Instead, freeze the curry just before adding the cream component. Once cooled, portion and freeze in freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw thoroughly and stir in your cream or fromage frais while reheating gently for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat the curry slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and to reincorporate the cream smoothly. Microwaving is fine if you cover the dish to keep moisture in, stirring halfway through. Add extra chopped coriander or a splash of stock if needed to refresh the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs work well in this Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe. Just keep in mind breasts cook a bit faster and can dry out if overcooked, so keep an eye on them during simmering for tender results.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-calorie diet?

Yes, it’s designed to be lighter than traditional kormas by using low calorie cooking spray and fat free fromage frais or creamy alternatives. It’s a great option if you want a flavorful curry that fits into a healthier eating plan.

Can I substitute the chicken for a vegetarian option?

Definitely! For a vegetarian twist, try using chickpeas and vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, or squash in place of the chicken. Adjust the cooking times so that the veggies are tender but still hold their shape. This allows you to enjoy the Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe’s signature flavors while keeping it plant-based.

How spicy is this curry?

This curry has a mild heat level thanks to a small amount of chilli powder, making it approachable for most palates. If you like it spicier, you can always add extra chilli or fresh green chilies to taste.

What if I don’t have passata?

No problem! You can use tinned tomatoes blitzed into a smooth purée as a straightforward substitute. This keeps the sauce light and fresh, maintaining the delicious character of the Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Chicken Korma Recipe is such a joy to make and eat, striking the perfect balance between indulgence and wholesome goodness. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, it’s bound to impress with its vibrant spices and creamy sauce. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just discover a favorite curry that’s nutritious and endlessly satisfying all at once.