Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons garam masala; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup coconut milk; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:13:18.177Z

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, spiced sauce. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the aromatic flavors that fill your kitchen.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and aromatic flavors that transport you to India
Creamy, comforting texture that's perfect for chilly nights
Effortless cooking with minimal prep time

      

The Essence of Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that beautifully combines the flavors of marinated chicken and a rich, spiced sauce. Originating from Indian cuisine, this dish has won hearts all around the world. The secret lies in the perfect blend of spices, including garam masala and turmeric, which create an aromatic experience that transports you straight to the streets of India.

This creamy version, enhanced by coconut milk, offers a comforting texture that pairs wonderfully with rice or naan. The slow cooker method ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in tender chicken that falls apart at the slightest touch. It’s the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings or any time you crave something indulgent.

Cooking Made Easy

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is its simplicity. With minimal prep time, you can effortlessly create a dish that tastes like it has been simmering for hours. The marination process is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor, but it doesn’t require much hands-on time. Just mix, marinate, and let the slow cooker do the work.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and let it cook while you attend to other tasks. The result is a delicious, hassle-free meal that will impress family and friends alike. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great choice for lunch as well.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, serve this Chicken Tikka Masala with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. The rice soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully, while the naan serves as the perfect vehicle for scooping up every last bite. You can also accompany your meal with a side of cucumber raita or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

For those who love a bit of heat, feel free to add extra cayenne or serve with sliced jalapeños. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving can brighten the flavors even further. No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka Masala

2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup coconut milk
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for a flavorful experience.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.

Prepare the Slow Cooker

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until soft and fragrant. Transfer to the slow cooker.

Combine Ingredients

Add marinated chicken, tomato sauce, and coconut milk to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all ingredients.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until chicken is tender and cooked through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan. Enjoy!

Make sure to adjust spices according to your taste!

Tips for Perfecting Your Tikka Masala

To ensure your Chicken Tikka Masala turns out perfectly every time, consider using high-quality spices. Fresh spices can significantly elevate the flavor profile of your dish. If possible, select whole spices and grind them at home for the best taste.

Marinating the chicken for longer periods, such as overnight, allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish. If you’re short on time, even a 30-minute marinade will make a difference, but the longer, the better!

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop over time, making this dish even more enjoyable the next day. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Chicken Tikka Masala for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for the best results.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your taste preferences. You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, or even try it with shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian version. Just be mindful of cooking times, as shrimp and tofu require less time to cook.

Experimenting with spices is also encouraged. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the cayenne pepper, or add a touch of smoked paprika for a different flavor profile. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, making it easy to adapt to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ Is it possible to freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked Chicken Tikka Masala for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

Serve it with basmati rice, naan bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.