How to Make the Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Indian · Easy · 375 min · 4 servings
This slow cooker version of the beloved Indian-inspired dish delivers deeply spiced tender chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce without any fuss. It is an approachable weeknight dinner that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Why this recipe works
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 375 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 420 calories with 38g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 14 oz
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 2 tablespoons tikka masala spice blend
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Mix the Sauce
In the base of the slow cooker combine the crushed tomatoes coconut cream tikka masala spice blend garlic and ginger. Stir everything together until a uniform sauce forms.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Nestle the chicken thighs into the sauce making sure each piece is coated. Push them down slightly so they are partially submerged in the sauce for even cooking.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and shreds easily with a fork.
Step 4: Shred and Serve
Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker and stir it back into the sauce. Serve over basmati rice and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- coconut cream → heavy cream for a more traditional creamy texture
- chicken thighs → chickpeas for a vegetarian version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using chicken breasts instead of thighs which dry out easily during long cooking
- Skipping the spice bloom which results in a flat tasting sauce
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 420 calories, 38g protein, 18g carbs, 22g fat, 3g fiber.
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