Name: Slow Cooker Tikka Masala Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup yellow onion, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced or finely chopped; 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger; 2 pounds boneless and skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon canola oil; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

Print Recipe· 3.8 from 3 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the rich, aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine without the fuss of standing over a hot stove, this Slow Cooker Tikka Masala Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It perfectly marries tender chicken thighs with a luxurious blend of spices and creamy tomato sauce, slow-cooked to perfection for three hours. This recipe promises a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exotic, making it ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. Plus, it fills your kitchen with such an inviting aroma that you’ll be counting down the minutes until it’s ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many small white bowls and two small wooden bowls arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a glass bowl with raw light pink chicken pieces. Surrounding it are white bowls with finely chopped white onion, yellow grated ginger, crushed garlic, red tomato paste, red sauce, creamy white yogurt, and small amounts of brown ground spices including cumin, black pepper, and chili powder. Two small wooden bowls hold a yellow spice powder and white salt. There is also a small glass measuring cup with white liquid and a small white bowl with a pale yellow liquid. All items are evenly spaced, highlighting the colorful ingredients before cooking. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a pivotal role in building the layers of flavor and the vibrant color that make this Slow Cooker Tikka Masala Recipe truly special. From the warm earthiness of garam masala to the fresh zing of ginger and the creaminess of Greek yogurt, every item adds an essential note to the symphony of taste.

Canola Oil: A neutral oil that helps sauté the onions without overpowering their natural sweetness.
Yellow Onion: Provides a sweet, savory base once softened, setting the stage for the spices.
Garlic Cloves: Minced finely for that subtle pungency that blends seamlessly with other spices.
Freshly Grated Ginger: Adds warmth and a hint of brightness, perfectly balancing the richness.
Garam Masala: The heart of the spice mix offering complex flavors with cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
Chili Powder: Introduces gentle heat without overwhelming the dish.
Cumin: Earthy and slightly smoky, complementing the tomato base beautifully.
Turmeric: Brings its signature golden hue and subtle bitter undertone.
Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the sauce’s richness.
Chicken Thighs: Boneless and skinless, cut into perfect bite-sized pieces to stay juicy through slow cooking.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s natural flavor.
Plain Greek Yogurt: Adds tanginess and creaminess, tenderizing the chicken as it cooks gently.
Tomato Sauce: Provides a smooth, luscious base for the masala sauce.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Stirred in last for that unforgettable silky texture and mellow finish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Tikka Masala Recipe

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Start by heating canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in your chopped yellow onions and cook them until they’re translucent and soft – this unlocks their natural sweetness and creates a deliciously aromatic foundation. Then add minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, cooking just until fragrant. This quick sizzle releases their essential oils and sets a lively tone for the spices you’ll add next.

Step 2: Toast the Spices and Tomato Paste

Mix in the garam masala, chili powder, cumin, and turmeric, stirring constantly to toast the spices lightly and amplify their fragrance. Then stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about a minute. This step deepens the sauce’s flavor immensely by caramelizing the sugars in the paste and melding it seamlessly with the spices. Afterward, transfer this glorious mixture into your slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Yogurt

Add the chicken thighs directly into the slow cooker on top of the spice base. Sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper over the chicken for seasoning. Then dollop the plain Greek yogurt over everything and pour in the tomato sauce. The yogurt not only enriches the sauce but also helps keep the chicken tender and juicy as it slowly cooks. Give everything a gentle stir to combine before placing the lid on your slow cooker.

Step 4: Slow Cook and Finish with Cream

Set your slow cooker on high for about 3 hours. During this time, the chicken soaks up all the spice-infused tomato goodness and becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. Once the cooking time is up, stir the tikka masala well to bring everything together and thicken the sauce slightly. Finally, swirl in the heavy whipping cream to add silky richness and mellow any intense flavors, creating a luscious finish.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Tikka Masala Recipe

A close-up of a thick, creamy orange-brown curry sauce with chunks of tender meat inside a white ceramic bowl that sits on a white marbled surface. A shiny silver ladle scoops some of the curry, showing soft, saucy meat pieces covered in the rich sauce, sprinkled with small green cilantro leaves for a pop of color. The sauce looks smooth with visible spices giving texture, and the bowl edges frame the dish neatly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves is a classic and welcome accent that adds a burst of herbal freshness to this creamy dish. If you love a bit more texture, toasted almond slivers or a dollop of extra yogurt make delightful toppings that elevate the presentation and add contrasting flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve this Slow Cooker Tikka Masala Recipe with fluffy basmati rice to soak up all the flavorful sauce. Warm naan bread or garlic naan on the side is also a perfect companion, allowing you to scoop up every last bit. For a refreshing balance, a simple cucumber raita or a crisp salad with a light lemon dressing pairs beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this comforting dish into a vibrant meal by serving it in individual mini cast iron skillets or decorative bowls which keep the tikka masala warm longer. Alternatively, layering it over a bed of spiced quinoa or even roasted cauliflower rice gives a modern twist. Garnishing edges with bright pomegranate seeds or microgreens adds visual flair that will delight guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen and improve overnight, making it ideal for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This Slow Cooker Tikka Masala Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its signature flavor and texture.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the dish in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. You may want to add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely, but chicken thighs are preferable because they stay juicier and more tender during the slow cooking process. Breasts might dry out if cooked for the full 3 hours, so consider reducing the cooking time if using them.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu, paneer, or hearty vegetables like cauliflower and chickpeas. Just keep in mind the cooking time might need adjustment depending on the protein or veggies you use.

Can I prepare this dish without a slow cooker?

You can simmer the ingredients on the stovetop over low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour, but the slow cooker allows the flavors to develop much more deeply and the chicken to become incredibly tender.

How spicy is this recipe?

This Slow Cooker Tikka Masala Recipe offers a mild to medium spice level thanks to the chili powder – it’s warm and inviting without overwhelming heat. You can easily adjust by adding more chili or omitting it if you prefer a gentler flavor.

Do I have to use heavy cream?

Heavy cream adds richness and smoothness but can be replaced with coconut milk for a dairy-free version or swapped with additional yogurt for a tangier finish. Just stir it in gently at the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

There is something so satisfying about coming home to a pot of Slow Cooker Tikka Masala Recipe bubbling away, filling your home with intoxicating aromas, and delivering effortless gourmet flavor. This recipe not only simplifies the process of creating an authentic Indian-inspired meal but also guarantees juicy chicken and a sauce so rich you’ll want to savor every bite. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation. Go ahead and bring a taste of India to your table tonight!

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