Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet easy to prepare, slow cooker chicken Tikka Masala is your answer. Originating from India, this beloved dish combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy tomato sauce, making it a favorite in homes around the world. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the spices to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients

Creating the perfect slow cooker chicken Tikka Masala requires a blend of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. Gather the following to make this flavorful dish.

Protein

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  These will provide tender and juicy meat as they cook.

Spices

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  Adjust cayenne according to your spice preference.

• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
  This adds a burst of freshness to the final dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious slow cooker chicken Tikka Masala. Each phase is crucial to achieve the rich flavors and tender texture of the dish.

1. Prepare Chicken: Cut 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps ensure even cooking and allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Chop Aromatics: Dice 1 large onion finely. Mince 4 cloves of garlic and 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger. Set aside.
3. Measure Spices: In a small bowl, combine the following spices:

• 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons of ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon of garam masala
• 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

1. Crush Tomatoes: Open a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and pour them into a mixing bowl.
2. Coconut Milk: Shake a 14-ounce can of coconut milk before opening to combine the contents.
3. Gather Other Ingredients: Measure out 2 tablespoons of olive oil and keep salt ready for seasoning. Also, prepare fresh cilantro for garnish later.

With these preparations complete, you are ready to proceed to the cooking instructions to bring all these wonderful flavors together.

Cook

Now that you have prepared all your ingredients, it is time to bring everything together in the slow cooker for a delightful chicken Tikka Masala.

Set Up the Slow Cooker

Start by positioning your slow cooker on a stable surface near an electrical outlet. Ensure the insert is clean and dry. If desired, you can spray the insert with cooking spray or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Begin by placing the cut chicken thighs evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. Next, layer in the diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sprinkle the measured spices—cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper—over the chicken and aromatics for an even distribution of flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk, stirring gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Add salt to taste and a drizzle of olive oil for richness. Top it off with chopped cilantro for an aromatic touch.

Cook Time and Temperature

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Cooking on low allows the flavors to deepen, while high will speed up the process. The chicken is ready when it becomes tender and easily shreds with a fork. Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 165°F (75°C). After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Finish

Once the cooking time is complete, the aroma of Chicken Tikka Masala fills your kitchen. You’re just a few steps away from serving this delightful dish.

Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should read at least 165°F (75°C). If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue cooking the dish in the slow cooker, checking every 15 minutes. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred with a fork when done.

Stir and Adjust Seasoning

Carefully stir the Chicken Tikka Masala to combine all the ingredients. Taste the sauce and consider your preferred spice level. If necessary, adjust the seasoning by adding a bit more salt or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat. For an extra creamy texture, you can stir in a splash of additional coconut milk. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving, enhancing the visual appeal and adding freshness to every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoying your slow cooker chicken Tikka Masala is a delight, and pairing it with the right accompaniments and garnishes can elevate the experience.

Accompaniments

Serve your chicken Tikka Masala with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the rich, creamy sauce. You can also try it with quinoa for a nutritious alternative. For added texture and flavor, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables such as cauliflower or carrots. If you prefer something fresh, a simple cucumber salad with yogurt can provide a refreshing contrast to the spices.

Garnishes

Enhance the visual appeal and flavor of your dish by garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro. A drizzle of coconut cream adds creaminess and presents beautifully. You might also sprinkle some toasted cashews for a delightful crunch. Finally, a squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the dish and balances the rich flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Equipment Needed

To prepare slow cooker chicken Tikka Masala, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process and flavorful results.

Slow Cooker

A high-quality slow cooker is essential for this recipe. Choose one with a capacity of at least 6 quarts to accommodate the ingredients. Look for a model with a programmable timer so you can set it and forget it while the chicken cooks to tender perfection.

Mixing Bowls

You will need several mixing bowls for combining ingredients and mixing spices. Opt for a medium-sized bowl for mixing your spice blend and another for preparing your aromatics like onion, garlic, and ginger. Using separate bowls helps keep everything organized and makes it easy to layer the ingredients in the slow cooker.

Cutting Board and Knife

A sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife are necessary for chopping the chicken, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic and ginger. Ensure your knife is sharp for clean cuts, which will enhance the dish’s presentation and make preparation faster and easier.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing your slow cooker chicken Tikka Masala in advance makes mealtime even easier. Follow these make-ahead instructions to save time while still enjoying a rich and flavorful dish.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by marinating the boneless skinless chicken thighs. Combine the chicken with yogurt, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper in a large mixing bowl. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor infusion.

Step 2: Prep Vegetables

Dice the onion and mince the garlic and ginger. You can store these prepped vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

If you prefer an even easier process, combine all the marinated chicken with the prepped onions, garlic, and ginger directly in a zip-top freezer bag. Add the crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, olive oil, and salt. Seal the bag tightly, removing excess air for optimal storage.

Step 4: Store in the Freezer

Label the freezer bag with the date and contents. Store the bag in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Step 5: Slow Cook

When you’re ready to enjoy your chicken Tikka Masala, transfer the thawed mixture to your slow cooker. Set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Follow the remaining cooking instructions as outlined in the recipe for perfect results.

By following these make-ahead instructions, you facilitate smooth preparation on busy days, ensuring a flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Conclusion

Slow cooker chicken Tikka Masala is a fantastic dish that brings the warmth of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. With its tender chicken and rich sauce it’s a meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul.

The convenience of the slow cooker makes it easy for you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you choose to serve it with basmati rice naan or quinoa you’ll create a delightful dining experience that everyone will love.

Don’t hesitate to customize the flavors to suit your taste and enjoy the process of creating this comforting dish. Your slow cooker is your best friend in achieving a delicious chicken Tikka Masala that’s sure to impress.