Name: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 195 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Plain Yogurt (Can use Greek yogurt for thicker consistency or non-dairy yogurt for dairy-free.); 2 tablespoons Garam Masala (Critical for flavor; can substitute with curry powder.); 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin (Great for digestion; coriander can be used if out of cumin.); 1 tablespoon Ground Coriander (Can replace with fresh cilantro for garnish.); 1 teaspoon Turmeric (Provides golden color; can be omitted if unavailable.); 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Adjust to taste for spiciness.); 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Feel free to add more if desired.); 1 inch Ginger, grated (Can use powdered ginger (1 tsp) if needed.); 1 pinch Salt to Taste (Enhance all the flavors.); 2 lbs Chicken Thighs, boneless and skinless (Preferred for flavor and tenderness.); 1 can (14 oz) Crushed Tomatoes (Provides a thick, hearty base.); 1 cup Coconut Milk (Full-fat for richness; can use light for less creaminess.); Fresh Cilantro for garnish (Add a pop of color and freshness.); Rice or Naan for serving (Perfect sides for this dish.)

This creamy, rich Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala comes together in about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks all in one pot for easy weeknight meal that your family will love! You can switch up the ingredients to suit your taste, maybe toss in some veggies or switch out the chicken for tofu! It’s the perfect meal to clean out the fridge or use up some odds and ends while delivering a major flavor punch.

Ingredient Breakdown

Chicken Thighs (2 lbs, boneless and skinless)
Plain Yogurt (1 cup)
Garam Masala (2 tablespoons)
Ground Cumin (1 tablespoon)
Ground Coriander (1 tablespoon)
Turmeric (1 teaspoon)
Cayenne Pepper (1 teaspoon)
Onion (1, diced)
Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Ginger (1 inch, grated)
Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz)
Coconut Milk (1 cup)
Salt to Taste
Fresh Cilantro for Garnish
Rice or Naan for Serving

Let’s Get Cooking!

Prep the Marinade (5 minutes) : In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne, garlic, and ginger. It should smell incredible, trust me!
Coat the Chicken (5 minutes) : Add the chicken thighs into the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Let it soak up all that goodness while you prepare the slow cooker!
Add to the Slow Cooker (1 minute) : Place the marinated chicken in your slow cooker, lining it up so it cooks evenly.
Pour in the Sauces (1 minute) : Next, pour the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk over the chicken. Stir it all together, scraping the yummy bits off the bottom to incorporate all those flavors!
Cooking Time : Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Don’t open that lid unless you absolutely have to! The smells are going to be unbearable as you wait!
Taste and Adjust (5 minutes) : Once it’s finished cooking, check the seasoning and add a couple pinches of salt to taste, if needed.
Garnish and Serve : Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro right before serving, and enjoy it with rice or warm naan!

Why I Love This Recipe

This is my go-to recipe when I’m in need of comfort food that satisfies my cravings without taking up my entire evening. It’s so easy to throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. I’m a real sucker for that tangy yogurt mixed with aromatic spices, it’s just so heartwarming! And the best part is how versatile this dish is! You can use whatever you’ve got on hand, swap out chicken for chickpeas, or even toss in some spinach for added nutrition. It’s family-friendly and absolutely delicious!

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, my Filipino Chicken Asado, or my KFC Style Crispy Chicken!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala literally comes together in under 20 minutes of prep! Just toss everything in and let it do its thing while you relax or tackle other tasks at home.

Crowd-Pleaser

Loaded with tons of flavor and the perfect spice blend, this dish is a surefire hit with both adults and kids! Trust me, the whole family will love it!

Customizable

Got some extra veggies on hand? Throw them in! Not a fan of coconut milk? Use regular cream or even vegetable broth! This recipe adapts easily to what you have and what your family enjoys.

Comfort Food

It’s creamy, flavorful, and downright comforting, perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little pick-me-up.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with basmati rice, but don’t forget the warm naan for dipping! Add a side of roasted veggies or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container!

Reheating Instructions

The best way to reheat this slow cooker chicken tikka masala is on the stovetop over medium heat. You might need to add a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen it up as it may thicken in the fridge.

Freezer Friendly? Yes!

Yes, this dish is freezer-friendly! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before packing it into a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Now, how easy was that? You have a fantastic, comforting meal that your family will absolutely love, all with the magic of your slow cooker. You’ll be hooked once you give it a whirl! Enjoy! Follow us on Pinterest for daily meal inspiration!