Looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is the answer! It’s the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and comforting, all achieved with minimal effort thanks to the magic of your slow cooker. Get ready for restaurant-quality Tikka Masala without the takeout price!
What is Chicken Tikka Masala?
Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish globally known for its tender marinated chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce. While its origins are debated, with some claiming a British-Indian heritage, its popularity is undeniable. Authentic versions usually involve grilling the chicken beforehand to achieve a slightly charred flavor, but this slow cooker version simplifies the process while retaining that deliciousness.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease of preparation: you simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work. The chicken comes out incredibly tender and flavorful, infused with the aromatic spices that make Tikka Masala so irresistible.
Ready to enjoy a homemade version of this iconic dish? Let’s get cooking!
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala:
- Chicken: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces. Thighs are preferred for slow cooking as they remain moist and flavorful.
- Plain Yogurt: 1 cup plain yogurt (full-fat or Greek yogurt). Acts as a tenderizer for the chicken and adds a tangy element to the marinade.
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Brightens the flavors and further tenderizes the chicken.
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger. Adds a warm, spicy, and aromatic note.
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced garlic. Essential for a savory base flavor.
- Garam Masala: 2 tablespoons garam masala. A blend of warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, crucial for the distinct Tikka Masala flavor.
- Turmeric Powder: 1 teaspoon turmeric powder. Adds color and a subtle earthy flavor.
- Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon chili powder. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Cumin Powder: 1 teaspoon cumin powder. Provides a warm, earthy flavor.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon salt. To taste
- Tomato Paste: 6 ounces tomato paste. Forms the base of the tomato-based sauce.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained to add body and texture to the sauce in the process.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup heavy cream. Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, creating that signature Tikka Masala texture.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Adds richness and a velvety texture. (Can be substituted with ghee for a richer flavor.)
- Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish. Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala:
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is incredibly easy to make! Simply combine the chicken with a flavorful yogurt marinade, then let the slow cooker work its magic. The result is tender, juicy chicken in a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with authentic Tikka Masala flavors. The preparation time is only about 20 minutes. It’s a very satisfying and easy meal that makes for a delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, garam masala, turmeric powder, chili powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, combine the tomato paste and diced tomatoes. Stir into the yogurt mixture to create the sauce base.
- Add Chicken to Slow Cooker: Add the marinated chicken to the slow cooker, ensuring it’s evenly distributed in the sauce, and turn it to coat it.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and very tender.
- Add Cream, and Thicken (optional): In a saucepan, melt the butter, then add the cream. Add the cream into the slow cooker. Stir gently to incorporate. If desired, for a thicker sauce, create a slurry using 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with rice, naan bread, or your favorite side.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala:
This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, and here’s why. The creamy, spiced sauce is the main highlight, offering a rich and comforting flavor profile that’s both satisfying and addictive. We make a dish with the slow cooker instead of buying takeout for cost-savings.
You save money by making it at home, yet it gives you a good quality sauce similar to takeout restaurant. The fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous counterpoint to the rich spices, making each bite a flavor explosion. Think of this recipe as the easier, more hands-off cousin to a traditional stovetop Tikka Masala.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
What to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala With:
- Basmati Rice: A classic pairing that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
- Naan Bread: Warm naan bread for dipping into the delicious Tikka Masala sauce.
- Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish that provides a refreshing contrast to the spices, and adds additional cooling taste.
- Mango Chutney: Adds a sweet and tangy element.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool and refreshing side that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala:
Spice Level Adjustment: Reduce or increase or omit the chili powder based on your preferred spice level. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have plain yogurt, Greek yogurt can be used instead. You can also use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
Timing Adjustments: If you’re short on time, you can cook the chicken on high for 3-4 hours. Be sure to check for doneness, as cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker.
Ingredient Quality: Using fresh, high-quality spices will significantly impact the flavor of your dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Be sure to check for doneness after the recommended cooking time. When the chicken start to shred easily, it’s cooked well.
- Not Marinating the Chicken: Marinating the chicken is essential for tenderizing and infusing it with flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Adding the Cream Too Early: Adding the cream too early in the cooking process can cause it to curdle. Stir it in during the last 30 minutes for the best results.
5 Facts about Chicken Tikka Masala:
- Origin Mystery: The true origins of Chicken Tikka Masala are debated, with claims pointing to both India and the UK.
- British Favorite: It’s considered a British national dish.
- Adaptable Recipe: Variations exist with different spices and ingredients.
- Globally Popular: It’s enjoyed worldwide for its rich flavor and versatility.
- Restaurant Staple: A must-have dish on Indian restaurant menus globally.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the Chicken Tikka Masala to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the Tikka Masala in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the Tikka Masala in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every minute to ensure even heating.
- Optimal Taste after Reheating: Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to restore the original creaminess.
Final Thoughts:
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful, hassle-free route to enjoying a beloved classic. Its ease and deliciousness make it perfect for weeknight meals or gatherings. Bring the rich, aromatic flavors to your kitchen today with this simple recipe!
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala FAQs:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
- Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their higher fat content, which helps them stay moist and tender in the slow cooker. If you use chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out.
Can I make this vegetarian?
- Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese), chickpeas, or cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
How can I make this vegan?
- Replace the chicken with tofu or vegetables, use plant-based yogurt like cashew or almond yogurt, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
- Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or peas to the slow cooker in the last hour of cooking.
How do I make it thicker if I don’t have cornstarch?
- Simmer the sauce uncovered on the stovetop after slow cooking to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the chicken to thicken the sauce naturally.