Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
To bring this creamy and flavorful Chicken Tikka Masala to life, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice or naan, for serving
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your slow-cooked Chicken Tikka Masala:
- Step 1: In a slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Step 2: Add the boneless chicken thighs to the slow cooker.
- Step 3: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk.
- Step 4: Add in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 5: Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices and other ingredients.
- Step 6: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Step 7: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
- Step 8: Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside cooked rice or warm naan.
Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect:
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your heat preference.
- For added sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar.
- If you like your sauce thicker, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
- To meal prep, store leftovers in individual portions for easy lunches throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While chicken breasts can be used, they may result in a drier dish as they cook faster than thighs.
2. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of coconut milk?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for coconut milk for a tangy flavor, but add it at the end to prevent curdling.
3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, Chicken Tikka Masala freezes well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
5. How do I serve Chicken Tikka Masala?
This dish is best served over a bed of rice or alongside warm naan, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful way to bring exotic flavors to your dining table without the hassle of standing over the stove. With tender, juicy chicken nestled in a creamy sauce, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try.
