Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala – Creamy, Flavor-Packed & Better Than Takeout!

Craving that rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced Chicken Tikka Masala without all the hassle? This slow cooker version is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal, packed with bold Indian flavors and melt-in-your-mouth chicken. With a velvety tomato-based sauce, aromatic spices, and a touch of cream, this dish is pure comfort in every bite. Serve it over fluffy basmati rice or scoop it up with warm naan—either way, it’s restaurant-quality at home!

The Origins of Chicken Tikka Masala Are a Delicious Mystery!

Did you know that Chicken Tikka Masala is often debated as either an Indian or British creation? Some say it originated in India, while others claim a UK-based chef invented it when a customer wanted more sauce with their chicken. Either way, this dish has become a global favorite, and now you can make it effortlessly in your slow cooker!

Slow Cooking = Maximum Flavor Without the Effort!

Traditional Chicken Tikka Masala is made by grilling marinated chicken and simmering it in a spiced tomato-cream sauce. But with a slow cooker, you get that same deep, rich flavor—minus the extra steps! Just toss everything in, let it cook low and slow, and let the magical blend of spices work its magic!

FAQs

1. What is Chicken Tikka Masala?

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian-inspired dish featuring tender marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect with rice or naan.

2. Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala in a slow cooker?

Yes! A slow cooker makes Chicken Tikka Masala super easy and flavorful by allowing the spices and sauce to develop over time. It’s a hands-off, effortless way to make this classic dish.

3. Do I need to sauté the ingredients before slow cooking?

If your slow cooker has a sauté setting, use it to cook the onions, garlic, and spices before slow cooking. This step enhances the flavor and creates a richer sauce.

4. What type of chicken is best for tikka masala?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best choice because they stay juicy and tender during slow cooking. However, you can also use chicken breasts for a leaner option.

5. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If possible, let it sit overnight to absorb all the spices and yogurt marinade.

6. What’s the difference between Chicken Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken?

Both dishes are creamy and flavorful, but Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) is milder and sweeter, while Chicken Tikka Masala has a bolder, spicier flavor with more tomato-based sauce.

7. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and use dairy-free yogurt for the marinade to make it completely dairy-free while keeping it rich and creamy.

8. What are the key spices used in Chicken Tikka Masala?

The signature spices include garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne. These create the dish’s bold and aromatic flavor.

9. Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes! Cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours. The low-and-slow method develops deeper flavors, but high works if you’re short on time.

10. How do I thicken the tikka masala sauce?

If the sauce is too thin after cooking, let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) to thicken.

11. What should I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

It’s best served with basmati rice, naan, or roti. A side of cucumber raita or a simple salad pairs well to balance the spices.

12. Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Masala?

Absolutely! Let it cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

13. Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat level. Adjust the cayenne pepper or use less garam masala if you prefer a milder version.

14. Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! Replace the sugar with a keto sweetener, use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and serve it with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.

Make it

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Servings: 4-6 | Cook Time: 6-8 hours | Prep Time: 15 minutes

Rich, creamy, and packed with warm Indian spices, this Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is the ultimate comfort food! With tender marinated chicken in a luscious tomato-based sauce, this dish is better than takeout. Plus, with the sauté function, you can build even more flavor right in your slow cooker! Serve it over basmati rice or with warm naan for a meal that’s pure perfection.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp garam masala
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp salt
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated

For the Sauce:

1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp butter
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Instructions (Using the Sauté Setting!)

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they are well coated. Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Sauté the Aromatics in the Slow Cooker:

Set your slow cooker to Sauté mode. Melt the butter, then add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring for another minute until fragrant.

3. Sear the Chicken (Optional, But Worth It!):

Add the marinated chicken to the slow cooker and sear for 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in the flavor before slow cooking.

4. Slow Cook to Perfection:

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar. Stir everything together to combine.

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

5. Finish with Creamy Goodness:

Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and let it warm through for about 10-15 minutes. This makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and rich!

6. Serve & Enjoy:

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed basmati rice or warm naan.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 380
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 15g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 600mg

Enjoy this slow cooker Chicken Tikka Masala—flavor-packed, creamy, and way better than takeout! 🌟