Royal Badami Khorma: Mughlai Chicken in Creamy Almond-Yogurt Gravy

1 hour 35 minutes

801 reads

4.60 from 5 votes

About Royal Badami Khorma: Mughlai Chicken in Creamy Almond-Yogurt Gravy

Transport yourself to the Mughal courts with the rich, creamy embrace of Badami Khorma. Imagine tender chicken enveloped in a luxurious almond-yogurt gravy, fragrant with spices and a hint of bright lime.
This dish is a symphony of textures and flavors, a perfect centerpiece for any special occasion. The delicate balance of sweet and savory makes it an unforgettable culinary experience.
Serve this royal treat hot with fluffy naan or steamed rice for a truly immersive feast.
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Recipe Time & More

Prep1 hour
Cook35 minutes
Total1 hour 35 minutes
Calories382 kcal
Serves2
Served AsLunch

Ingredients
 

For the Marinade

For the Almond-Poppy Seed Paste

For the Badami Khorma

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Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces, red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, lime juice, and cumin powder. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 1 hour. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors.
  • Grind the soaked almonds and poppy seeds together with a little water to form a smooth paste. Set aside.
  • Heat ghee and oil in a large pan or pot. Add cloves, green cardamoms, black cardamom, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
  • Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 1 minute. Add the marinated chicken, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well and cook until the chicken is lightly browned.
  • Add the remaining red chili powder, nutmeg powder, and mace powder. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the almond-poppy seed paste and Greek yogurt. Cook for 10 minutes over high heat, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
  • Add a little water to the pan, cover, and reduce heat to low-medium. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
  • Remove the lid and add the fried onions. Stir gently. Add kewra water and cook for another 5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and garam masala. Garnish with blanched almonds.
    Mughlai chicken served with saffron-infused rice in a traditional royal presentation.
  • Serve the Badami Khorma hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Recipe Notes

Good To Know

  • Soak the almonds in hot water for 20-30 minutes before peeling and grinding them; this results in a smoother, creamier paste that blends seamlessly into the gravy.
  • For enhanced depth of flavor, fry the onions until golden brown and then grind them into a paste—this adds both richness and a subtle sweetness to the khorma sauce.
  • If you prefer a milder tang, substitute part of the lime juice with a splash of kewra water or rose water; this imparts a delicate, fragrant Mughlai note to the dish.
  • Badami Khorma tastes even better when allowed to rest for a few hours or overnight, as this gives time for the flavors to meld—reheat gently to avoid curdling the yogurt-based sauce.

Expert Tips

  • For a richer, nuttier flavor, lightly toast the almonds before soaking and grinding.
  • Adjust the consistency of the khorma by adding more water or stock if needed. If it becomes too thick upon reheating, thin it out with a little warm milk or cream.
  • Garnish the finished dish with chopped cilantro, toasted slivered almonds, and a swirl of cream for an elegant presentation.

Storage Instructions

  • Store leftover Badami Khorma in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent curdling.

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4.60 from 5 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 382kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 5gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 9.9gMonounsaturated Fat: 19.8gSodium: 1710mgFiber: 4gSugar: 7g

Sayan Majumder
Sayan Majumder
Articles: 33
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4.60 from 5 votes

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