Description
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to soak in all the aromatic spices, creating a deliciously creamy and savory curry. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-inch piece of ginger (grated)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken thighs, onion, garlic, ginger, and diced tomatoes in the slow cooker.
- Add the spices: Add the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, and cloves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook: Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours, or until the chicken is tender.
- Finish the sauce: Once the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the yogurt and heavy cream (or coconut milk). Let the mixture cook for another 15–20 minutes to thicken.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice, naan, or vegetables.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add more paprika or a chopped chili pepper.
- You can substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- This recipe works great with both boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–7 hours (on low)
- Category: Main Dish, Curry
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g