Indulge in the rich flavors of Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala with this easy recipe! Perfectly tender chicken thighs are simmered in a creamy sauce made with aromatic spices, coconut milk, and a hint of yogurt. It's a hassle-free meal that will impress your family and friends. Ready in just a few easy steps, this dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan.
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked basmati rice or naan (for serving)
![- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated - 2 tablespoons garam masala - 1 tablespoon ground cumin - 1 tablespoon ground coriander - 1 teaspoon turmeric powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 cup coconut milk - 2 tablespoons plain yogurt - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste To make a great slow cooker chicken tikka masala, you need these key ingredients. The chicken thighs bring rich flavor and tenderness. The onion, garlic, and ginger add depth and warmth. The spices, like garam masala and cumin, create a fragrant and tasty blend. The crushed tomatoes and coconut milk form a creamy, savory sauce. The yogurt makes the dish even richer and smoother. - Fresh cilantro for garnish - Serving options: basmati rice or naan You can use fresh cilantro to brighten the dish. It adds a nice color and flavor. Pair your chicken tikka masala with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice. These sides soak up the delicious sauce and round out your meal. For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions to create this dish. First, gather all your ingredients. In a large bowl, mix the chicken thighs with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This step builds a strong flavor base. Make sure everything is mixed well. You want the chicken to soak up those tasty flavors. Next, take a separate bowl and combine the spices. Use garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. This spice mix is key to your Chicken Tikka Masala. Once you mix them well, add this spice mixture to the chicken and onion blend. Stir until every piece is coated with the spices. Now, it's time to transfer everything to the slow cooker. Pour the chicken and spice mixture into the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Drizzle the olive oil over the top, then cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set your slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the plain yogurt. This adds a creamy texture and balances the spices. After stirring, taste the dish. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your savory Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala with cooked basmati rice or warm naan. You can find the full recipe linked above for more details. Marinating the chicken makes a big difference. I recommend marinating for at least one hour. This helps the chicken soak up all the spices. You can even marinate it overnight for the best flavor. To achieve tender chicken, use thighs instead of breasts. Thighs have more fat, which keeps them juicy. Monitor the cooking time closely. Overcooking can make chicken dry. Serve your chicken tikka masala with basmati rice or warm naan. Both soak up the sauce well and enhance every bite. For a fresh touch, use chopped cilantro as a garnish. It adds color and flavor. You can also try adding lime wedges for a zesty kick. A sprinkle of sliced green onions can add a nice crunch too. For the full recipe, follow the steps carefully. Enjoy the savory flavors, and don't forget to share your creation! {{image_2}} You can easily change up the protein in this dish. If you want a lighter option, use chicken breast instead of thighs. Chicken breast has less fat and still tastes good. For a vegetarian twist, try paneer. Paneer absorbs flavors well and adds a nice texture. If you need a dairy-free version, swap coconut milk for almond milk or cashew cream. These options provide a creamy base without using dairy. You can also replace yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt, like coconut yogurt. This keeps the dish rich and tangy while being dairy-free. The spice level is key in Chicken Tikka Masala. If you love heat, add crushed chili peppers or cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. This way, you can find the right heat for your taste buds. You can also play with different spice blends. Try adding curry powder for a different flavor profile. Garam masala is a classic choice, but mixing in some smoked paprika gives a nice twist too. Experiment with what you have in your spice rack to make it your own! For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe]. To store leftovers of Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala, first let it cool. Then, place the dish in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. You can store it in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Always label your container with the date. This way, you won't forget how long it has been there. If you want to keep your Chicken Tikka Masala longer, freezing is a great option. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Try to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Stir it well to keep the sauce creamy. If it seems thick, add a splash of coconut milk to restore its texture. Enjoy your delicious meal at any time! What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala? You can serve Chicken Tikka Masala with basmati rice or naan. Both options soak up the rich sauce well. You might also try a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for added crunch and flavor. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge after cooling. Reheat gently before serving, and add a little yogurt for creaminess. How long does it take to cook in the slow cooker? Cooking in the slow cooker takes about 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time makes chicken super tender and lets the flavors meld perfectly. How to avoid drying out the chicken? To avoid drying out the chicken, use thighs instead of breast meat. They stay juicy and tender during long cooking times. Also, make sure to add enough liquid, like coconut milk or crushed tomatoes, to keep the chicken moist. You now have a clear guide to making Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala. We discussed essential ingredients, the cooking steps, and tips for success. Remember, marinating is key for tender chicken. You can also make it your own by swapping ingredients or adjusting spice levels. Proper storage ensures that leftovers stay fresh. With this knowledge, you can confidently prepare this meal and impress your guests. Enjoy delicious flavors at your next dinner!](https://homecookingstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/8cc06144-f6c9-47b5-a733-391e098bcd6d-250x250.webp)