Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for those busy days? Look no further! Slow cooker chicken tikka masala is a sweet and spicy sauce that is thick, rich, and creamy. It’s packed with flavorful spices like garam masala, paprika, and even a hint of cinnamon. Best of all, it’s not too spicy and pairs perfectly with rice and naan bread.
The Convenience of Slow Cooker Recipes
If you’re a fan of effortless cooking, slow cooker recipes are a game-changer. With a slow cooker, you can make a complete meal with minimal effort. Just throw in all the ingredients and let the magic happen. If you love slow cooker recipes, you should definitely give these Slow Cooker Beef Tips, Slow Cooker Jambalaya, and Slow Cooker Lasagna recipes a try!
Unforgettable Flavors from the Indian Cuisine
Have you ever tried chicken tikka masala? This Indian dish is a flavor bomb that will leave you craving for more. The spices are simply incredible. I still remember the first time I tried it at a restaurant and was blown away by the intricate flavors. That’s when I knew I had to create a slow cooker version of this dish. The slow cooker is the perfect solution for busy days when you don’t have time to stand over the stove. Trust me, this recipe will become your new favorite!
Simple Ingredients, Amazing Taste
Don’t let the long list of ingredients scare you away! Most of the ingredients are spices that you probably already have in your pantry. The slow cooker does all the work for you, so you can simply add everything together in a certain order and let it do its magic. You’ll be amazed at the incredible flavors that come out of your slow cooker!
Fresh Ingredients for a Burst of Flavor
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: No need to pre-cook the chicken. Just toss it into the slow cooker!
- Onion: Adds a subtle hint of flavor to the dish.
- Garlic: A must-have ingredient for incredible flavor.
- Ginger: Fresh and grated for maximum flavor.
- Tomato Puree: The base of the sauce, giving it a beautiful orange-red color.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
- Olive Oil: Adds flavor and richness to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Thick and flavorful cream that enhances the texture.
- Cornstarch: Helps to coat the chicken and thicken the sauce.
- Cilantro: Chopped and used as a garnish.
Spices to Elevate the Flavor
- Garam Masala: A classic Indian spice mix.
- Cumin: Perfect for curry dishes.
- Paprika: Adds a touch of spice and flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Just a pinch to enhance the taste.
- Cinnamon: A secret ingredient that adds depth and sweetness.
- Cayenne Pepper: Adds a little heat to the sauce.
- Bay Leaves: Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavors.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala: An Effortless Process
Making slow cooker chicken tikka masala is a breeze. Simply mix the sauce ingredients together, add the chicken, and let the slow cooker do its magic. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Mix together the sauce: In your slow cooker, combine onion, garlic, ginger, tomato puree, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garam masala, cumin, paprika, salt, cinnamon, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the chicken and cook: Toss the chicken pieces in the sauce until coated. Add the bay leaves. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Mix and cook a little longer: In the last 20 minutes of cooking, whisk together cornstarch and heavy cream. Add it to the sauce and continue cooking for another 20 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the chicken tikka masala over rice and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Tikka Masala
Here are some tips to help you make the best slow cooker chicken tikka masala:
- Finding the Spices: Garam masala can be found in the spice section of your local grocery store. If you can’t find it, you can substitute it with a blend of cumin and all-spice. Simply mix 1 part cumin with 1/4 part all-spice.
- Serve with Naan: For the full restaurant experience, serve your chicken tikka masala with naan bread. You can make it at home or buy pre-made naan from the store.
- Make It Dairy-Free: If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute coconut milk for the heavy cream.
Leftovers: A Delicious Bonus
One of the best things about slow cooker recipes is that they make great leftovers. You can easily make a big batch of chicken tikka masala and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Refrigerator Storage: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer Storage: You can freeze your leftovers for up to 3 months in a plastic bag or freezer-safe airtight container.
Don’t miss out on this amazing slow cooker chicken tikka masala recipe! It’s a flavorful dish that will become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Pin this now to find it later!
