The rich and creamy flavors of Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala make it an irresistible dish for any occasion. This comforting, aromatic curry paired with rice or naan brings a slice of Indian cuisine right to your home. The best part? You can let it cook all day while you go about your activities, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe you’ll want to make over and over again!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low option)
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala combines tender chicken thighs marinated in a blend of spices with a creamy coconut sauce, creating a dish that’s perfectly fragrant and flavorful. Cooking in a slow cooker allows the spices and flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that feels like a warm hug. It’s ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends and offers the convenience of being largely hands-off, so you can enjoy your company without fussing over the stove.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, garam masala, and cumin. This mix will be the heart of your dish, infusing the chicken with wonderful flavors.
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Step 2: Mixing
Add the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk into the slow cooker. Season everything with salt and pepper, adjusting the amount based on your taste preference. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients well.
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Step 3: Cooking
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender and the flavors will deepen, creating a scrumptious sauce.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken inside the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to ensure the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Serve this delightful chicken tikka masala over steamed rice or with warm naan for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also pair it with a simple cucumber salad or yogurt raita to balance the heat.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken tikka masala for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
- For a bit more heat and depth, add chopped green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, though thighs will yield a juicier outcome.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in an extra splash of coconut milk right before serving.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with chickpeas or a variety of mixed vegetables.
Delicious Variations
- Paneer Tikka Masala: Substitute chicken with paneer cubes for a vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Chicken Tikka: Add more spices like red chili powder or jalapeños for a fiery kick.
- Slow Cooker Tikka Masala Soup: Thin the sauce with additional coconut milk and broth to transform it into a hearty soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but the cook time may be longer. Ensure they are fully cooked before serving.
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What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala? It pairs wonderfully with rice, naan, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
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Can I add vegetables? Yes! Try adding bell peppers, peas, or spinach for an extra nutritious boost.
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Why is my sauce too thin? If you find the sauce too thin, you can thicken it by cooking uncovered for the last 30 minutes to allow some moisture to evaporate.
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How do I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare all the ingredients the night before, then simply dump them in the slow cooker in the morning.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its warm spices and creamy sauce, it’s sure to bring a cozy touch to your dining table. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this dish will impress everyone with its rich flavor and aroma. So gather your ingredients, set the slow cooker, and savor the delightful experience of homemade Indian cuisine in the comfort of your home! Enjoy!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A rich and creamy chicken tikka masala, slow-cooked to perfection with tender chicken thighs and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, garam masala, and cumin.
- Add crushed tomatoes and coconut milk, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir to mix with the sauce.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with chickpeas or mixed vegetables. Refrigerate leftovers for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
