The aroma of spices wafting through your home, the creamy texture of a slow-cooked sauce, and the tender chicken that melts in your mouth – that’s what you get with our Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, where stories are shared, and bonds are strengthened over a hearty meal. Infused with love and creativity, this dish is not just a meal, but an experience that brings warmth to your dining table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Steamed basmati rice for serving
- Naan bread for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and allow to marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Place the marinated chicken into the slow cooker. Add the cooked onions and garlic, along with the tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over steamed basmati rice, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro. Pair with warm naan bread for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
- Make it spicier: Increase the cayenne pepper or add fresh chopped chilies for a fiery kick.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.
Pairings and Complementary Dishes
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice and warm naan bread. For a refreshing drink, try it with a cool glass of mango lassi or a warm cup of masala chai.
We hope you enjoy this comforting and flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala. Share your creations on Instagram using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us @Zynahz. We’d love to see your culinary masterpieces! Don’t forget to leave feedback on our website Zynahz, subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes, and follow us on social media for the latest updates.
