Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

PIn it

This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a truly satisfying and easy-to-make filling dinner recipe. You’ll love how the creamy, flavorful sauce tenderizes the chicken, creating a dish perfect for any night of the week. This recipe simplifies a classic, bringing rich, aromatic flavors directly to your table with minimal effort.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts also work well.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes, pureed, can be used in a pinch.
• Greek Yogurt: Sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative (plain, unsweetened) can be substituted.
• Garam Masala: Essential for authentic flavor; don’t skip this spice blend if possible.
• Ginger & Garlic: Fresh is best, but pre-minced versions are convenient.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Spices:

• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Optional for Serving:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Cooked basmati rice or naan bread

How Much Time Will You Need?

• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (on high) or 6-8 hours (on low)
• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 (without rice/naan)
• Tools Needed: Slow cooker (6-quart or larger), cutting board, sharp knife, measuring spoons and cups.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Chicken and Aromatics

Cut your chicken thighs into even 1-inch pieces; this ensures they cook uniformly. In a large bowl, toss the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mince your garlic and grate your fresh ginger, and finely chop your onion.

2. Sauté the Aromatics and Spices

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for one minute until fragrant.

3. Combine in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed mixture to your slow cooker. Add the cut chicken pieces and the crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together gently until well combined.

4. Cook Until Tender

Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours, or on low for 6-8 hours. The chicken should be very tender and easily shredded with a fork when it’s done. This slow cooking method creates truly succulent chicken.

5. Finish with Creamy Goodness

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the Greek yogurt and heavy cream. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed; you might want a little more salt or a pinch of cayenne.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala hot over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread for a truly satisfying filling dinner recipe. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like.

Variation Ideas

• Add a handful of fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• For extra vegetables, include diced bell peppers or peas.
• Make it spicier by adding more cayenne pepper or a chopped green chili with the aromatics.
• Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. This filling dinner recipe also freezes well for up to 2-3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. They may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent drying out.

Is this dish very spicy?

The recipe includes a small amount of cayenne pepper, which you can adjust or omit based on your preference. Garam masala provides warmth rather than extreme heat.

What is garam masala?

Garam masala is an Indian spice blend often containing cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, coriander, and black pepper, adding complex flavor.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

You can chop all the vegetables and chicken the day before. The cooked dish also stores and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent filling dinner recipe for meal prep.

What should I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

Basmati rice and naan bread are traditional accompaniments. You can also serve it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.

Why is it important to add yogurt and cream at the end?

Adding yogurt and cream at the end prevents them from curdling or separating during the long cooking process, ensuring a smooth and creamy sauce.