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Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Savor the Flavor: Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala combines tender chicken with a creamy, spiced tomato sauce for a comforting dinner that is gluten-free and easy to prepare.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 lbs Chicken Thighs Recommended for best moisture and flavor; can substitute with chicken breasts.
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Marinade
  • 1 cup Whole-Milk Plain Yogurt Use vegan yogurt for a dairy-free option.
For the Sauce
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Finely chopped.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger Grated.
  • 1 tbsp Ground Coriander
  • 1 tbsp Garam Masala Essential for authentic flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tbsp Ground Turmeric
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
  • 2 cups Diced Tomatoes Drained.
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
For Garnishing
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Chopped.
To Serve
  • 2 cups Rice or Naan Traditional options.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • skillet

Method
 

Directions
  1. In your slow cooker, add the chicken thighs along with the whole-milk plain yogurt and kosher salt. Stir gently to ensure every piece of chicken is evenly coated with the yogurt marinade.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and toss in the finely diced yellow onion. Sauté for about 8 minutes until the onions become tender and translucent.
  3. Once the onion is clear and aromatic, introduce minced garlic, grated ginger, and your ground spices. Cook this fragrant mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
  4. Next, add tomato paste and the drained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes.
  5. Carefully transfer the aromatic sauce from the skillet into the slow cooker, mixing it thoroughly with the marinated chicken.
  6. Cover your slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 8 hours.
  7. About 10-15 minutes before you're ready to serve, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk.
  8. If you prefer a thicker sauce, uncover the slow cooker and continue cooking on HIGH for an additional 30 minutes.
  9. Before serving, squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the finished dish to brighten the flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For ultimate tenderness, marinate your chicken overnight. Pair it with rice or naan, and add an extra squeeze of lime for a zesty finish.

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