Few dishes represent the grandeur of Indian cuisine as elegantly as chicken shahi korma. Rich, creamy, and delicately spiced, this royal Mughlai curry is a symbol of luxury and comfort on one plate.
At Saagar Restaurant in Phuket, our chefs prepare this timeless dish using authentic spices, tender chicken, and a silky cashew-almond gravy that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re new to Indian food or a long-time lover of curry, this dish will make you fall in love all over again.
The Royal Origins of Chicken Shahi Korma
The word “Shahi” means royal, and “Korma” comes from the Urdu word “qorma”, which means “to braise” or “to cook in its own juices.” Chicken shahi korma has its roots in Mughal cuisine, a style of cooking developed during the Mughal Empire in India. The Mughals were known for their love of luxurious food — rich in flavor, infused with aromatic spices, and enhanced by nuts, yogurt, and saffron.
Traditionally, this dish was prepared in royal kitchens using tender chicken or lamb, slowly cooked in a mixture of yogurt, cream, and ground nuts. It was served to kings and nobles during feasts — a true royal indulgence. At Saagar Phuket, our chefs keep this regal tradition alive while blending it with modern culinary techniques for a perfectly balanced dish.
What Makes Shahi Korma Special
Unlike fiery Indian curries, shahi korma is mild yet full of depth. The magic lies in its base — a smooth gravy made with yogurt, cream, cashews, and aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
At Saagar, our chicken shahi korma is crafted with precision. The chicken is marinated for hours, ensuring every piece soaks in the rich flavors of the masala. The slow-cooked gravy brings together sweet, nutty, and savory elements in perfect harmony. The result is a curry that feels indulgent but not heavy — creamy yet balanced.
Authentic Chicken Shahi Korma Recipe
If you’ve ever wondered how to make chicken shahi korma at home, here’s a simple recipe inspired by our chefs at Saagar Phuket.
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 cup onions, thinly sliced
- ½ cup yogurt (whisked)
- ¼ cup cashews and almonds (soaked)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- 2–3 cardamoms
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- ½ cup cream
- Salt to taste
Preparation Steps:
- Make the Nut Paste:
Blend the soaked cashews and almonds into a smooth paste using a little water. This will give the gravy its rich texture. - Cook the Onions:
Heat ghee in a deep pan and add the whole spices — cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown. - Add Chicken and Spices:
Stir in ginger-garlic paste, coriander, cumin, and turmeric. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned. - Incorporate Yogurt and Nut Paste:
Lower the heat and add whisked yogurt gradually while stirring continuously to prevent curdling. Then add the cashew-almond paste and mix well. - Simmer the Curry:
Add a little water for consistency, cover the pan, and let it cook on low flame until the chicken is tender and the oil separates from the gravy. - Finish with Cream:
Stir in fresh cream and garam masala. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes for a royal, silky finish.
Serve hot with naan, paratha, or basmati rice.
Variations of Shahi Korma
While chicken shahi korma is the most popular version, there are several variations across India:
- Lamb Shahi Korma: A hearty, flavorful version made with tender lamb pieces for those who prefer a deeper, meatier flavor.
- Murgh Shahi Korma: Another name for chicken korma, known for its rich Mughlai flavors and creamy texture.
- Vegetarian Shahi Korma: Made with paneer or mixed vegetables, perfect for those who prefer a meat-free option.
At Saagar Phuket, we offer chicken and lamb shahi korma, allowing guests to experience the full royal spread.
The Saagar Phuket Touch
At Saagar, we don’t just serve food — we serve stories. Each dish, including our korma shahi, is prepared using handpicked ingredients and authentic Indian techniques. Our chefs take pride in maintaining the right balance between creaminess and spice. The mild, aromatic sauce pairs perfectly with garlic naan or jeera rice, making it a favorite among both Indian diners and international guests visiting Phuket.
It’s no surprise that many of our guests call it “the best chicken shahi korma near me” — for good reason. Every bite takes you back to the royal kitchens of India. It is one of the best dishes on our menu.
FAQs About Chicken Shahi Korma
1. What is chicken shahi korma?
It’s a traditional Mughlai dish made with chicken simmered in a rich, creamy gravy of yogurt, nuts, and aromatic spices.
2. How to make shahi korma?
Shahi korma is made by braising meat or vegetables in a spiced yogurt and nut-based sauce until tender and flavorful.
3. Is chicken shahi korma spicy?
No, it’s mildly spiced with a rich, creamy texture — perfect for those who prefer balanced flavors.
4. What is shahi korma?
It’s a royal Indian curry known for its smooth, nutty, and aromatic gravy, traditionally served during Mughal feasts.
5. What is shahi paneer korma?
It’s a vegetarian version of shahi korma, made with soft paneer cubes cooked in the same luxurious gravy.