Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, minced; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp turmeric; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 8 hours

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is the perfect way to bring the flavors of your favorite Indian restaurant into your home without breaking a sweat. With tender chicken thighs bathed in a rich, spiced tomato sauce, this dish is a warm, comforting hug on a plate. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work, leaving your hands free for other tasks.

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken thighs are ideal here because they stay juicy and tender during slow cooking. Olive oil adds a subtle richness and helps sauté the aromatic base. Onion, garlic, and ginger create a flavorful foundation, with ginger adding a warm spice. The combination of garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper brings depth and a hint of heat. Tomato sauce gives the dish body, while heavy cream adds a luxurious, creamy finish. Don’t forget the cilantro—it adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
If you like extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a chopped green chili.
Use a liner in your slow cooker for easy cleanup.
Marinating the chicken overnight in yogurt and spices intensifies the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Tikka Masala over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. A side of steamed vegetables, like peas or green beans, complements the meal perfectly. For a refreshing contrast, pair it with a simple cucumber raita or a crisp green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?: Yes, but be aware that chicken breast can become dry if overcooked. Check for doneness early.
Is there a dairy-free option?: Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
How long does it keep?: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, and it freezes well for up to 3 months.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, letting it cook until it becomes translucent—this should take about 5 minutes. Once your kitchen is filled with the sweet aroma of cooked onions, add the garlic and ginger. Give it a quick stir and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.

Next, sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Stir them into the onion mixture, allowing the heat to release their oils and intensify their flavors for about a minute. Now, transfer this aromatic mixture to your slow cooker.

Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker along with the tomato sauce. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken is fully coated with that flavorful mixture. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.

About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, pour in the heavy cream and season with salt to taste. Stir well to combine, then cover again and let it finish cooking. Just before serving, sprinkle on the cilantro for that fresh burst of flavor and color.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Effortless preparation: Let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
Rich, aromatic flavors with minimal fuss.
Uses common pantry spices for an authentic taste.
Perfect for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp ginger, minced

2 tsp garam masala

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp turmeric

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1 1/2 cups tomato sauce

1 cup heavy cream

Salt to taste

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté onions until translucent.

2. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3. Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute.

4. Transfer onion mixture to slow cooker.

5. Add chicken thighs and tomato sauce, stirring to combine.

6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

7. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt to taste. Cook for another 15 minutes.

8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

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