Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

If you’re craving the rich, comforting flavors of Indian cuisine but want the ease of a hands-off cooking method, this Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is your new go-to. Tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce come together effortlessly in the slow cooker, filling your kitchen with intoxicating aromas and delivering a meal that tastes like it took hours of work—without you lifting a finger. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

Unlike traditional stovetop methods that require careful timing and constant attention, this Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala lets the flavors meld beautifully over several hours, resulting in a depth of taste that’s simply unbeatable. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures the meat stays moist and tender, while the combination of spices—tikka masala curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala—creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile that’s authentic yet approachable.

The addition of coconut milk adds a subtle creaminess and a hint of sweetness, making the sauce luxuriously smooth and dairy-free, which is perfect for those avoiding cream or yogurt. Plus, cooking everything in the slow cooker means your kitchen stays cool, and cleanup is minimal.

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and rich flavor. They hold up well during slow cooking without drying out.
• Onion: Diced onion provides a savory base. Yellow or white onions work best, but sweet onions can add a nice subtle sweetness.
• Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger add essential aromatic warmth and spice complexity.
• Diced Tomatoes: Two 14 oz cans of diced tomatoes form the tomato base of the sauce. Choose fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra smoky flavor.
• Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Use full-fat coconut milk for the best texture.
• Tomato Paste: Enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Spices: The star here is the tikka masala curry powder, which contains a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Adding these spices separately intensifies the flavor layers.
• Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste to enhance all the flavors.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onions and spices before slow cooking to deepen their flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a bright, fresh finish when sprinkled on top before serving.
• Cooked Rice: Essential for serving, as it soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly.

Essential Tools for Success

• Slow Cooker: Choose one with at least a 4-6 quart capacity to accommodate this recipe comfortably.
• Skillet or Frying Pan: For sautéing onions, garlic, and spices before adding to the slow cooker.
• Grater: To grate fresh ginger for maximum aroma and flavor.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing onions and prepping garlic and chicken.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: To ensure precise spice and ingredient amounts.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by dicing one medium onion, mincing four cloves of garlic, and grating about one tablespoon of fresh ginger. Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Spices

Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, ginger, 3 tablespoons of tikka masala curry powder, 1 teaspoon each of cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed mixture to your slow cooker. Add the two cans of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker, nestling them into the sauce. Ensure they are mostly submerged for even cooking.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and the sauce thickened.

Step 6: Final Touches

Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala hot over fluffy cooked rice. This dish pairs beautifully with naan or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

International Equivalents

• Tikka Masala Curry Powder: In the UK and many Commonwealth countries, tikka masala powder is readily available. In other regions, you might find it labeled as garam masala blends or Indian curry powder.
• Coconut Milk: Known as “nata de coco” in some Asian countries, it’s widely available in canned or carton forms.
• Chicken Thighs: In many countries, these might be labeled as “dark meat” or “boneless chicken leg meat.”
• Tomato Paste: Often called “concentrated tomato puree” in Europe.

Testing Timeline

• Initial Test: Cooked for 6 hours on low to check tenderness and spice balance.
• Extended Cook: Tested 8 hours on low to ensure chicken remained moist and didn’t overcook.
• High Setting: Trialed 3.5 hours on high for quicker meal prep, with results slightly less tender but still flavorful.
• Spice Adjustment: Increased garam masala slightly in later tests for deeper warmth without overpowering.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is perfect for meal prepping and can be made ahead of time with ease. Prepare the sauce and chicken up to step 4, then refrigerate the slow cooker insert overnight. When ready to eat, place the insert in the slow cooker and cook as directed. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making leftovers even better the next day. You can also freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months, then thaw and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Quick Q&A

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender during the slow cooking process. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! Add a finely chopped green chili or increase the amount of tikka masala curry powder. You can also serve with a side of hot chili chutney for an extra kick.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can sauté the onions and spices using the sauté function, then add the rest of the ingredients and pressure cook for about 10 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for tender, flavorful chicken tikka masala in a fraction of the time.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala?

This dish is traditionally served with basmati rice or naan bread. For sides, consider steamed vegetables or a fresh cucumber raita to cool the palate. If you love chicken dishes, you might also enjoy recipes like Maple Chili Glazed Chicken Thighs or Chicken And Roasted Red Pepper Pasta.

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• Maple Chili Glazed Chicken Thighs – A sweet and spicy complement to your dinner rotation.
• Chicken And Roasted Red Pepper Pasta – A creamy, comforting pasta that’s quick to prepare.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is the ultimate comfort food that brings authentic flavor to your table with minimal effort. Its tender chicken and robust sauce will satisfy your cravings for something rich and exotic, while the slow cooker does all the work in the background. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers every time. Remember that the slow and low cooking method is key to unlocking the deep flavors and perfect texture, so trust the process and enjoy every bite. Serve with fluffy rice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to impress.

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