Welcome to a culinary journey that brings the rich, aromatic flavors of India right into your kitchen with minimal effort! Today, we’re thrilled to share an incredibly delicious and unbelievably easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala recipe. This iconic dish, beloved worldwide, is transformed into a convenient weeknight meal thanks to the magic of your CrockPot or slow cooker. Prepare to indulge in tender chicken pieces swimming in a creamy, spice-infused tomato sauce that will tantalize your taste buds and become an instant family favorite.
Effortless Excellence: The Ultimate Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
There’s something truly special about a dish that delivers complex, restaurant-quality flavors with very little hands-on time, and our Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala does exactly that. Chicken is a staple in many households, and it truly shines when cooked slowly, absorbing all the wonderful spices and transforming into incredibly tender bites. This recipe leverages the set-it-and-forget-it nature of your slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.
If you’re a fan of slow cooker chicken dishes, you’re in good company! We constantly explore new ways to utilize this versatile appliance. You might also enjoy our CrockPot Cashew Chicken Recipe for a sweet and savory experience, or our CrockPot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe for a taste of the Pacific Rim. Both are fantastic choices for a hearty dinner, and they make for superb leftovers – if there are any left to begin with!
Why Choose a Slow Cooker for Chicken Tikka Masala?
Chicken Tikka Masala is renowned for its rich, deeply layered flavors, and the slow cooker is an ideal tool to achieve this depth without constant supervision. Here’s why it’s a game-changer for this classic Indian-inspired dish:
- Unbeatable Tenderness: Slow cooking allows chicken breast or thighs to become incredibly tender and moist, practically melting in your mouth. The low, consistent heat gently breaks down the fibers, ensuring every bite is succulent.
- Flavor Infusion: The prolonged cooking time gives all the spices, herbs, and aromatics ample opportunity to meld together, creating a harmonious and complex flavor profile that simply can’t be rushed. The chicken has hours to absorb the fragrant tikka masala sauce.
- Hands-Off Convenience: After a quick initial prep, you can simply load your slow cooker, set it, and go about your day. Come dinnertime, you’ll be greeted with a delicious, ready-to-serve meal. This makes it perfect for busy professionals, parents, or anyone who loves delicious food without the fuss.
- Less Mess: Cooking in one pot means fewer dishes to wash, making cleanup a breeze.
- Foolproof Results: The gentle cooking environment of a slow cooker reduces the risk of overcooking or drying out the chicken, ensuring consistent, delicious results every time.
The Heart of Indian-Inspired Cuisine: Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala holds a special place in the culinary world, often considered a British national dish despite its Indian roots. It typically features marinated chicken (tikka) cooked in a tandoor oven, then simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce (masala). Our slow cooker version captures the essence of this beloved dish, offering a creamy, rich, and aromatic experience that’s both comforting and exotic.
Essential Ingredients for Your Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Crafting an epic Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients and a vibrant spice blend. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:
Protein Powerhouse: The Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (or Thighs): We recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and tender result. However, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative if you prefer a richer flavor and even more moist texture. Cut them into 1-inch to 1.5-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and easier serving.
Aromatic Foundation: Building Flavor from the Ground Up
- Onion: A diced or thinly sliced onion forms the base of many Indian curries, providing a crucial sweet and savory depth.
- Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for authentic flavor. For convenience, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar, but fresh will always provide the most potent aroma and taste.
- Minced Ginger: Ginger adds a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet undertone that is characteristic of Indian cuisine. Like garlic, fresh is best, but jarred minced ginger is a good time-saver.
The Rich Sauce Base: Creamy and Tangy Perfection
- Tomato Sauce: This provides the rich, tangy, and slightly sweet backbone of the tikka masala sauce. Opt for a good quality tomato sauce without added sugars or artificial flavors for the best taste.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to the signature creamy texture and luxurious mouthfeel of Chicken Tikka Masala. It balances the spices and acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
The Soul of the Dish: The Spice Blend
This carefully selected blend of spices is what truly brings the tikka masala to life. Don’t skip any!
- Garam Masala: This is a warming blend of ground spices, typically including cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. It’s often added at the end of cooking to preserve its delicate aromas.
- Coriander: Ground coriander adds a mild, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavor.
- Cumin: Ground cumin provides an earthy, warm, and slightly pungent aroma.
- Paprika: Sweet paprika adds a mild flavor and a beautiful reddish hue to the sauce.
- Turmeric: Known for its vibrant yellow color and earthy, slightly bitter taste, turmeric also boasts impressive health benefits.
- Cayenne Pepper: For a touch of heat! Adjust the amount to your preference – a little goes a long way.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors. Taste and adjust as needed.
Thickening Agent: The Finishing Touch
- Cornstarch: A cornstarch slurry is used in the final hour of cooking to thicken the sauce to that perfect, rich consistency.
Optional Side Dishes: Completing the Feast
To truly enjoy your Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala, serve it with traditional accompaniments.
- Naan Bread: Soft, chewy naan is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy, aromatic basmati rice provides a neutral base that highlights the vibrant flavors of the curry.
Essential Equipment for Slow Cooker Success
Having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving a perfect, stress-free meal.
- Slow Cooker (CrockPot): We highly recommend using a slow cooker with a digital timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting after the cooking time is complete. This feature is incredibly convenient, ensuring your dinner cooks perfectly without you having to constantly monitor the clock, preventing overcooking and keeping your meal hot until you’re ready to serve. A 6-quart capacity is ideal for this recipe.
- Slow Cooker Liners: These disposable liners make cleanup virtually effortless, protecting your slow cooker insert from stubborn food residue.
- Kitchen Spoon/Stirring Utensil: For combining ingredients.
- Small Bowl: Essential for preparing the cornstarch slurry.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements, crucial for balancing the flavors.
How to Master CrockPot Chicken Tikka Masala: Step-by-Step Guide
Making this Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is incredibly simple. Just follow these easy steps for a flavorful meal:
- Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Begin by lining the slow cooker insert with a slow cooker liner. This simple step will save you a lot of scrubbing later!
- Combine Main Ingredients: Add your chopped boneless, skinless chicken, sliced onion, minced garlic, minced ginger, tomato sauce, garam masala, coriander, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper to the lined slow cooker bowl. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well coated with the spices and sauce.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 7 to 8 hours. Cooking on low for an extended period ensures maximum flavor development and incredibly tender chicken.
- Prepare the Thickening Slurry: During the final hour of cooking, it’s time to thicken that rich sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream and cornstarch until smooth. This slurry will help achieve the desired creamy consistency.
- Thicken the Sauce: Pour the cream and cornstarch mixture into the slow cooker with the chicken tikka masala. Stir well to combine. Replace the lid and continue to cook for another hour on low, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the sauce has thickened, your CrockPot Chicken Tikka Masala is ready! Serve hot over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, with warm naan bread on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Preparation, Storage, and Reheating Tips
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for meal prep and future enjoyment.
Make-Ahead & Storage:
I love keeping my freezer stocked with essentials like chicken and pre-chopped onions. This makes recipes like CrockPot Chicken Tikka Masala, which is wonderfully make-ahead friendly, even easier. You can chop your chicken and onions ahead of time, even mixing them with the dry spices in a freezer bag, then simply add the wet ingredients to the slow cooker on cooking day.
For leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Enjoy within three to four days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Freezing for Later:
Chicken Tikka Masala freezes beautifully! Transfer any freezer-bound leftovers into an airtight, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Be sure to leave some headspace if using containers, as liquids expand when frozen. This dish will maintain its quality for up to three months in the freezer.
How to Reheat:
To reheat, thaw frozen servings overnight in the refrigerator to ensure even reheating. Once thawed, you can reheat your Chicken Tikka Masala using several methods:
- Microwave: For individual portions, microwave on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
- Stovetop: For larger quantities, gently reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until simmering and hot. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce seems too thick.
- Slow Cooker: If you have a substantial amount of leftovers, you can even reheat them in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting until thoroughly heated.
Recipe Variations to Suit Every Taste
One of the best things about Chicken Tikka Masala is its versatility. Feel free to customize this recipe to your dietary needs or flavor preferences.
Substitutions for Chicken:
- Chicken Cut: This recipe works wonderfully with any lean chicken cut. While chicken breasts are common, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can add even more moisture and rich flavor.
- Lamb Tikka Masala: For a hearty alternative, swap the chicken for lamb stew meat. Lamb’s robust flavor stands up beautifully to the rich sauce and slow cooking process.
Dairy Alternatives and Authentic Flavors:
- Coconut Milk for Cream: For a slightly different authentic Indian flair or a dairy-free option (ensure other ingredients are dairy-free too), replace the heavy whipping cream with full-fat coconut milk. You can also add a few tablespoons of plain yogurt (dairy or plant-based) at the end for an extra tangy note, ensuring it’s stirred in gently after the heat is off to prevent curdling.
Dietary Adaptations:
- Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, simply replace the chicken with a meat-free alternative. Hearty vegetables like cauliflower florets, chickpeas, or paneer (Indian cheese) work wonderfully. You could also use plant-based chicken-style cutlets to replicate the texture.
- Vegan Option: In addition to replacing the chicken with a plant-based alternative, vegans should also use a plant-based heavy whipping cream (such as cashew or coconut-based cream) or full-fat coconut milk to ensure the recipe is completely dairy-free. Double-check all processed ingredients like tomato sauce for hidden dairy.
- Gluten-Free: The core ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. However, it’s crucial to check labels on processed ingredients like tomato sauce, as some brands may contain gluten-unsafe additives or cross-contamination. Always look for a “gluten-free” certification.
- Sugar-Free: The original recipe contains 6 grams of sugar per serving, primarily from the tomato sauce. To make this recipe sugar-free, choose a tomato sauce that explicitly states “no sugar added.”
Adjusting Serving Sizes and Spice Levels:
- Smaller or Larger Servings: The written recipe is designed to yield six servings. It’s easy to scale this recipe up or down to meet your needs. If scaling up significantly, you might need to use a larger slow cooker or work in batches.
- Make it Spicy: If you love a fiery kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper to taste. You can also add a pinch of chili powder or finely chopped green chilies (like serrano or jalapeño) at the beginning of cooking. A little extra minced garlic or a touch of fresh ginger can also enhance the spicy warmth.
Expert Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
- Rice Choices: While basmati rice is traditional, feel free to pair your CrockPot Chicken Tikka Masala with any rice you enjoy. Brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa are excellent alternatives that offer different textures and nutritional profiles.
- Convenience with Jarred Aromatics: If you’re short on time or prefer not to mince fresh ingredients, look for jarred minced garlic and ginger in the produce or spice section of your grocery store. They’re excellent time-savers that still deliver great flavor.
- Don’t Skimp on the Spices: Fresh, good-quality spices make a huge difference in the final taste. If your spices have been sitting in the pantry for years, consider refreshing your stock for the best results.
- A Touch of Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro just before serving adds a burst of freshness and color that beautifully complements the rich flavors of the masala.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before the final thickening step and adjust salt, pepper, or cayenne as needed. Everyone’s palate is different!
What to Serve with Your CrockPot Chicken Tikka Masala
Transform your kitchen into your favorite Indian restaurant with these perfect pairings for your flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala. From delightful sides to refreshing drinks and tempting desserts, create a complete and memorable feast at home.
Perfect Side Dishes:
- Easy Fried Rice: A quick and flavorful alternative to plain rice.
- Crock Pot Rice: Even your rice can be hands-off with this clever method.
- Air Fryer Cream Cheese Rangoons: A crispy, creamy appetizer that adds a delightful crunch.
- CrockPot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup: For a broader Asian-inspired meal, a light, flavorful soup complements the richness of the curry.
- CrockPot Thai Chicken Stew: Another slow cooker gem for varied flavors.
Complementary Main Dishes (if hosting a larger spread):
- Orange Chicken and Broccoli: A sweet and savory classic that pairs well with Indian flavors.
- Crock Pot Cashew Chicken: Another excellent slow cooker chicken option.
- Asian Flank Steak: A savory beef option if you want to offer variety.
- CrockPot Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps: A fresh, lighter option.
- CrockPot Teriyaki Chicken: Another popular Asian-inspired slow cooker dish.
- CrockPot Thai Pork with Peanut Sauce: A rich and flavorful pork option.
Delightful Desserts:
- Mandarin Orange Jello Salad: A light, refreshing dessert to cleanse the palate.
- Sriracha Caramel Corn: For those who enjoy a sweet and spicy kick in their dessert.
- Mandarin Orange Angel Food Cake: A fluffy, citrusy treat.
- 2 Ingredient Coconut Macaroon Cookies: Simple, sweet, and tropical.
- Tropical No-Bake Truffles: An easy, exotic finish to your meal.
Refreshing Drinks:
- Spicy Chipotle Pineapple Martini: A bold cocktail to complement the rich flavors.
- Orange Moscow Mule: A zesty and bubbly option.
- Kamikaze Shot: A vibrant, citrusy classic.
- Green Tea Shot: A refreshing, unique option.
- Restorative Basil Drop: A sophisticated herbal cocktail.
- Mai Tai: A tropical, rum-based favorite.
When to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
- Weeknight Lunch or Dinner: Its ease of preparation makes it perfect for any day of the week.
- Family Dinner: A crowd-pleaser that satisfies diverse palates.
- Indian Cuisine Date Night: Impress your loved one with a homemade, restaurant-quality meal.
- Meal Prep for the Week: Cook a big batch and enjoy delicious meals all week long.
Discover More Great CrockPot Chicken Recipes
If you love the convenience and flavor of slow cooker chicken, be sure to explore more of our favorites:
- Southwest Chicken Dinner
- Honey Sriracha BBQ Chicken Wings
- Chicken Stroganoff
- Mango Salsa Chicken
- Teriyaki Chicken and Veggies
Do you love discovering new recipes? Be sure to check out our extensive collection of copycat recipes, irresistible dessert recipes, and our entire CrockPot Recipes archive for more culinary inspiration.
Follow Tammilee Tips on MSN, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for all our latest recipe posts and daily inspiration!
Crock Pot Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Delicious Crock Pot Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe you will love.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe
10 minutes
6 hours
6 hours 10 minutes
6
318kcal
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken
- ½ Onion sliced
- 1 Tablespoon Garlic minced
- 2 Tablespoon Ginger minced
- 28 oz Tomato Sauce
- 1 T Garam Marsala
- 1 t Coriander
- 1 t Cumin
- 1 t Paprika
- ½ t Turmeric
- ¼ t Cayenne Pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¾ c Heavy Whipping Cream
- 2 T Cornstarch
Instructions
- Line the slow cooker insert with the liners especially made to protect the bowl.
- Combine everything in the bowl, with the exception of the whipping cream and the cornstarch.
- Cook on low for 7 – 8 hours.
- In the last hour of cooking, combine the cream and the cornstarch in a small bowl.
- Pour into the Tikka Masala and continue to cook another hour to thicken.
- Serve with rice.
Kitchen Tools
- Slow cooker
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 198
This recipe was originally shared on April 2, 2018, and updated in January 2021 to bring you the best possible version of this incredible dish.