Introduction
If you're looking for a comforting and aromatic dish that can be prepared with minimal effort, look no further than slow cooker chicken tikka masala. This beloved Indian dish combines tender pieces of chicken with a rich, spiced tomato sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.
The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, resulting in a dish that tastes like it has been simmering for hours. Plus, it's an excellent way to enjoy the vibrant spices of Indian cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen. Just set it and forget it!
Whether served over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan, this slow cooker chicken tikka masala is sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option)
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Directions & Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well to coat the chicken with the aromatics.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, tomato paste, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken and onion in the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure the chicken is well coated in the sauce.
- Add the butter to the slow cooker, placing it on top of the chicken mixture.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Once cooking is complete, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on high.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve hot over basmati rice or with warm naan.
FAQs
What if my chicken is dry after cooking?
To avoid dry chicken, ensure you are using thighs instead of breasts, as thighs are more forgiving. Also, avoid overcooking; check for doneness at the minimum recommended time.
Can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients.
What can I do if the sauce is too tangy?
If the sauce is too tangy, try adding a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity from the tomatoes.
How can I enhance the flavor of the chicken?
Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for a few hours before cooking can enhance the flavor significantly.
What if my sauce is too thin?
If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by cooking with the lid off for a while or by stirring in a slurry of cornstarch and water.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or peas in the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
What other spices can I use for a different flavor profile?
Experimenting with additional spices like cinnamon or cardamom can add depth to the flavor profile.
Is it necessary to brown the chicken before slow cooking?
Browning the chicken isn't necessary, but it can add a richer flavor and color to the dish if you choose to do so.
Conclusion
Slow cooker chicken tikka masala is not only a delightful meal but also a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste preferences. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make adjustments, the comforting flavors will warm you up.
As you savor each bite, you'll appreciate the ease of preparation and the rich, satisfying taste that can only come from slow cooking. Enjoy this dish with family or friends, and watch it become a favorite in your home!
Recipe Card
Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well to coat the chicken with the aromatics.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, tomato paste, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken and onion in the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure the chicken is well coated in the sauce.
- Add the butter to the slow cooker, placing it on top of the chicken mixture.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Once cooking is complete, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on high.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve hot over basmati rice or with warm naan.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
