Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala recipe. Not only is it packed with rich flavors, but it also requires minimal hands-on time.
I love how I can toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner, the aromas fill my home, making my mouth water. The tender chicken absorbs the spices beautifully, creating a dish that feels special without the fuss.
Plus, it’s a hit with my family and friends, making it perfect for gatherings. Pair it with rice, and you’ve got a comforting meal that warms the soul. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
When it comes to whipping up a delightful meal with minimal fuss, the ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala are key. Gather these items, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor. Not only do these ingredients work together to create that rich, creamy sauce, but they also infuse the chicken with mouthwatering spices that make every bite a joy.
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Here’s what you need to make this delectable dish:
- 5 boneless skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 3 lbs)
- 1/2 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
- 1 jalapeno, stemmed, sliced in half, and seeds removed
- 1 (29 ounce) can tomato puree (Contadina Brand recommended)
- 1 1/2 cups plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1/2 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 – 3 teaspoons cayenne pepper (depending on your heat preference)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- Long grain white rice or basmati rice, cooked
- Chopped cilantro, for serving
Now, let’s explore a little more detail about these ingredients. Fresh ingredients are always a plus, especially the ginger and garlic; they really bring that aromatic punch.
If you’re not a fan of too much heat, feel free to adjust the jalapeno and cayenne pepper to your liking. And if you’re in a pinch, you can swap out the plain yogurt for a dairy-free alternative or even sour cream. Just remember, the yogurt helps to tenderize the chicken and adds creaminess to the sauce.
Oh, and don’t forget to have some rice ready to soak up all that delicious sauce—because who doesn’t love a good sauce-soaked rice moment? Enjoy the process, and get ready for a feast that feels like a celebration.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Making Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is easier than you might think, and it all starts with a big mixing bowl. First things first, grab your ingredients. You’ll need 5 boneless skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch pieces—about 3 pounds of deliciousness.
In that bowl, toss in 1/2 of a finely diced yellow onion, 4 minced garlic cloves, and 2 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger. Add in the jalapeno, but remember to remove the seeds if you want to keep things on the milder side. Next, pour in a 29-ounce can of tomato puree (Contadina is the go-to brand), followed by 1 and 1/2 cups of plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
Then, sprinkle in your spices: 2 tablespoons of garam masala, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1/2 tablespoon of paprika, 2 teaspoons of salt (taste as you go, if you must), 3/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 3/4 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper. If you’re feeling brave, toss in 1 to 3 teaspoons of cayenne pepper, depending on how spicy you like it. Finally, don’t forget the two bay leaves. Stir everything together until it’s all combined and looking like a flavorful party in that bowl.
Now, here comes the fun part. Pour half of that lovely sauce mixture into your slow cooker, and then add the diced chicken. Make sure to cover that chicken with the remaining sauce. It’s like tucking it in for a cozy nap.
Once it’s all snug, cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low heat for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. This is the part where you can kick back and relax, maybe scroll through your phone or watch a show.
When the time is up, whip out a mixing bowl and whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream with 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch—this will give your sauce that extra creaminess. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and gently stir it in. Let it cook for another 20 minutes while you get your rice ready. Long grain white or basmati rice works perfectly here; just imagine that fluffy rice soaking up all that rich sauce.
Before serving, make sure to fish out those bay leaves and the jalapeno. And there you have it, a dish that’s not just a meal but a warm hug on a plate, topped with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for that fresh finish. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Substitutions & Variations
While Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved classic, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
For a lighter option, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using chickpeas or paneer instead of chicken.
Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more or less cayenne pepper depending on your heat tolerance. For a tangy twist, consider incorporating a splash of vinegar or additional lemon juice.
Finally, switch up the yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like almond or soy yogurt to accommodate dietary restrictions.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that enhance its rich flavors.
I love serving it over fluffy basmati or long-grain rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully. For a touch of freshness, I often include a simple cucumber raita on the side; its coolness complements the spices perfectly.
Warm naan is another must-have; it’s perfect for scooping up the creamy chicken and sauce. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a rejuvenating contrast.
Finally, don’t forget some chopped cilantro for garnish; it brightens the dish and adds a burst of color. Enjoy experimenting with these pairings!
Additional Tips & Notes
To achieve the best flavor in your Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala, consider marinating the chicken in the yogurt and spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This step really enhances the flavors and tenderness of the chicken.
If you’re short on time, even a quick 30-minute marinade can help.
Also, don’t skip the heavy cream at the end; it adds richness and balances the spices. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half the cream with additional yogurt.
Finally, feel free to adjust the heat by modifying the cayenne pepper and jalapeno to suit your taste. Serve it with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor! Enjoy your cooking!