Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons garam masala; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup coconut milk; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of India with this easy-to-make Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish offers a delightful blend of spices and creamy sauce that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-29T23:31:15.133Z

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a perfect blend of spices, creaminess, and tender chicken. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. Serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken
A delightful balance of spices that warms the soul
Convenient slow cooker method for effortless cooking
Perfectly paired with rice or naan for a satisfying meal

      

The Magic of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a game changer for busy home cooks. By allowing ingredients to simmer for hours, you develop deep, rich flavors that are often unattainable through quicker cooking methods. In the case of Chicken Tikka Masala, the spices meld beautifully with the coconut milk and tomatoes, creating a luxurious sauce that clings to every bite of chicken. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply unwind after a long day.

One of the greatest advantages of a slow cooker is its versatility. You can customize the spice levels to suit your palate, whether you prefer a mild dish or one that packs a punch. The long cooking time allows the spices to infuse the chicken thoroughly, making it tender and bursting with flavor. Plus, the convenience of setting it and forgetting it makes it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Tikka Masala

To elevate your Chicken Tikka Masala, consider marinating the chicken for an extended period, ideally overnight. This not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in a dish that practically melts in your mouth. If you're short on time, aim for at least 30 minutes, but the longer, the better.

Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Taste the sauce towards the end of the cooking process and add more salt or spices if necessary. A dash of extra cayenne can give it that desired kick, while a touch of sugar can balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. Remember, cooking is an art, and you are the artist!

For a more authentic touch, consider using fresh spices instead of pre-ground. Grinding whole spices just before use can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dish. A spice grinder or mortar and pestle can make this an easy task, giving you the freshest taste possible.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka Masala

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup coconut milk
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker for a rich and hearty meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Cook the Chicken

Transfer the marinated chicken to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, and salt. Stir to combine.

Set the Slow Cooker

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir well. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside rice or naan.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala!

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken Tikka Masala is not just delicious; it also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, providing essential amino acids that support muscle health and overall body function. Additionally, the use of yogurt in the marinade adds probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.

The spices in this dish, such as turmeric and ginger, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric, in particular, contains curcumin, which has been linked to various health benefits, including improved brain function and reduced risk of chronic diseases. By enjoying this dish, you're treating your taste buds while also giving your body a nutritious boost.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen and improve as it sits, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. To freeze, portion it into airtight containers, ensuring you leave some space for expansion, and it will keep well for up to three months.

When it comes to reheating, the stovetop is your best bet to maintain the dish's creamy texture. Gently heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you prefer using a microwave, be sure to cover it to avoid drying out the sauce, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or paneer for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Masala?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.