Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons garam masala; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the rich, aromatic flavors of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala, perfect for a comforting dinner any night of the week.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:43:09.533Z

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful fusion of spices and creamy goodness, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and aromatic flavors that transport you to India
Creamy sauce that perfectly coats tender chicken
Effortless preparation with slow cooking for maximum flavor

      

The Essence of Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that originated in India, renowned for its aromatic spices and creamy texture. It features marinated chicken cooked to perfection in a rich tomato-based sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Each bite is a delightful experience that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of India.

The secret to an authentic Chicken Tikka Masala lies in its marinade. Using yogurt and a mix of spices, the chicken absorbs all the flavors, ensuring every piece is tender and succulent. The slow cooker method enhances the depth of flavor, allowing the spices and chicken to meld beautifully over time.

A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It can be served as a comforting weeknight dinner or as a show-stopping dish for gatherings and celebrations. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal that will impress your family and friends.

Moreover, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch over the weekend, and you'll have flavorful meals ready to go for busy weekdays. Simply reheat and enjoy the rich taste of homemade Chicken Tikka Masala without the hassle.

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the best flavor in your Chicken Tikka Masala, marinate the chicken for at least an hour, but ideally overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat, enhancing its tenderness and flavor. If time permits, don’t rush this step.

If you prefer a milder dish, adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility; you can customize the spice levels to accommodate your preferences. Additionally, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition and texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka Masala

2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Mix all ingredients together and let them cook in the slow cooker for a delicious, hassle-free meal.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and mix until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.

Prepare the Slow Cooker

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.

Add Chicken and Tomatoes

Add the marinated chicken and crushed tomatoes to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Finish with Cream

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to heat through before serving.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Tikka Masala!

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. If you're meal prepping, consider portioning it out for easy access during the week.

For reheating, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or place it in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of cream or water to maintain its creamy consistency while reheating.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Chicken Tikka Masala, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. This simple touch elevates the dish and adds freshness that complements the rich sauce perfectly.

For a complete dining experience, serve it alongside basmati rice, which absorbs the sauce beautifully, or with warm naan bread, perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness. A side of cucumber raita can also be refreshing, balancing out the spices with its coolness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay juicier.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop.

→ Is it possible to freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the Chicken Tikka Masala for up to 3 months. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

It pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.