With only table-toppers Arsenal recording more league wins than Aston Villa since Emery’s appointment in late October, the hosts dominated the early stages against a struggling Forest side with just one victory on the road all season.
Ollie Watkins, looking to extend his impressive run of form, dragged an early effort wide of the post, while Keylor Navas stood firm to thwart a close-range header from the in-form forward.
Forest gradually grew into the contest as the first half progressed, however clear-cut chances were at a premium for both sides with the scores remaining level at the interval.
After a disappointing opening 45 minutes, Villa emerged after the restart eager to stamp their authority on proceedings, and duly broke the deadlock within three minutes.
A misplaced pass from Jonjo Shelvey fell straight into the path of Bertrand Traoré who coolly dispatched a low effort into the far corner to score for the second league match in succession.
Intent on pressing home their advantage going into the final half-hour, Villa went in pursuit of a second goal to put the game beyond reach, however wasteful finishing from Emiliano Buendía kept Forest within touching distance.
Despite just a single goal separating the two sides, the visitors looked devoid of ideas in their search of a late equaliser, and Villa added late gloss to the scoreline in stoppage time when Watkins chipped Navas with a stunning finish.
The result sees Villa continue their unlikely pursuit of European football with a fourth consecutive Premier League triumph, while Forest remain deep in relegation trouble, following a ninth league match without victory.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Álex Moreno (Aston Villa)
