Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks; 1 cup plain yogurt (for marinade); 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp ground cumin; 1 tbsp ground coriander; 2 tsp turmeric powder; 1 large onion, finely diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp chili powder (optional); 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 tbsp tomato paste; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato and coconut-based sauce. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and healthy eating, made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Serve with rice or naan for a delightful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the hard work, freeing you up for the day.
Healthy Twist: Made with minimal cream and healthier alternatives like coconut milk for a guilt-free indulgence.
Authentic Flavor: The aromatic spices and creamy tomato base bring restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your preferences.
Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for leftovers, as the flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Sauté the spices before adding to the slow cooker for enhanced flavor.
Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture or light coconut milk for a lighter version.
Marinate the chicken overnight in yogurt and spices for extra tenderness.
Stir in a dollop of yogurt or cream at the end for added richness.
Don’t rush the cooking time; low and slow is key for tender chicken and bold flavors.

Yield: 6 servings

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala delivers rich, creamy, and spiced flavors, making it a healthy and effortless dinner choice.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 cup plain yogurt (for marinade)
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp ground coriander
2 tsp turmeric powder
1 large onion, finely diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder (optional)
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 tbsp tomato paste
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Add the chicken pieces and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and golden. Stir in garam masala, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using) for 1 minute.
Layer the Slow Cooker: Add the sautéed aromatics to the slow cooker. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat with the sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Finish and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasonings. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving.
Serve: Pair with steamed basmati rice, warm naan, or a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

For a thicker sauce, leave the slow cooker lid slightly ajar during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Double the recipe for easy meal prep and leftovers.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 329Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 190mgSodium 385mgCarbohydrates 12gFiber 2gSugar 7gProtein 41g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work too.
Spices: Ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and smoked paprika create the classic tikka masala flavor.
Tomatoes: Use canned crushed tomatoes for convenience, or fresh tomatoes for a lighter taste.
Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess; substitute with heavy cream or almond milk for different textures.
Onion and Garlic: A must for building the aromatic base of the dish.
Fresh Cilantro: For garnish, adding a burst of freshness to the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or a mix of hearty vegetables like cauliflower and potatoes.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt in place of regular yogurt in the marinade.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder or add fresh green chilies for more heat.
Protein Alternatives: Try lamb, shrimp, or even paneer as substitutes for chicken.
Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.

Storage Options

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.