Go Back

Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala with clear steps, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Ingredients Method

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)

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well to coat the chicken with the aromatics.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Add the butter to the slow cooker, placing it on top of the chicken mixture.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve hot over basmati rice or with warm naan.