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, skinless chicken thighs; 1 onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons garam masala; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a spiced tomato sauce, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:55:08.889Z

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that will transport you to India with every bite. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and aromatic spices that invigorate your taste buds
Creamy sauce that complements the tender chicken perfectly
Convenience of a slow cooker makes meal prep a breeze

      

A Flavorful Journey

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala takes you on a delightful journey through the rich culinary traditions of Indian cuisine. This dish is characterized by its aromatic spices and creamy texture, which come together to create a symphony of flavors. The star of the show, chicken tikka, is marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, which not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with an irresistible taste that leaves you wanting more.

The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness. As the chicken cooks, it absorbs the essence of the spices, creating a sauce that's both creamy and full of depth. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is its versatility. It can be served on a weeknight as a comforting meal or as part of a festive spread for special occasions. Paired with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread, it becomes a satisfying dish that caters to various tastes and preferences. The creamy tomato sauce balances the spices, making it accessible for everyone, including those who might be new to Indian cuisine.

Additionally, this recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It reheats wonderfully, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Just make sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

Tips for the Best Results

To elevate your Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the spice mixture for a few hours or overnight. This extra step enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken, resulting in an even more delicious dish. Also, feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference; you can add more paprika for heat or include a touch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Using fresh ingredients, like garlic and ginger, will make a noticeable difference in the overall flavor. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, you can leave the lid off for the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Finally, don’t forget the garnish—fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that beautifully complements the dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka Masala

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Serve with rice or naan for a complete meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, onion, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.

Add to Slow Cooker

Transfer the chicken mixture to the slow cooker. Pour in the tomato sauce and coconut milk, stirring to combine.

Cook

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

Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce with two forks. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside rice or naan.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy chicken tikka masala!

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is best enjoyed with a side of warm naan or fluffy basmati rice. These accompaniments help soak up the luscious sauce, making every bite a delight. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the dish.

If you’re looking to impress, serve the tikka masala in a traditional Indian-style thali, which includes small portions of various dishes. This not only enhances the dining experience but also allows your guests to try different flavors and textures all on one plate.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, you can either warm it up on the stovetop over low heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Adding a splash of coconut milk or water can help maintain the creamy consistency if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

Variations to Try

While this recipe features chicken, you can easily adapt it for other proteins. Try substituting the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option. If you're using tofu, make sure to press it to remove excess moisture, allowing it to absorb the flavors better.

For a different twist, consider adding vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or peas during the last hour of cooking. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds color and texture to the dish, making it even more appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs are recommended for a juicier texture.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing.

→ What can I serve with chicken tikka masala?

Serve it with basmati rice, naan bread, or a simple salad.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of garam masala and paprika used.