Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala : This recipe brings the rich, creamy, and aromatic flavors of a classic Indian restaurant with tender chunks of chicken bathed in a spiced tomato-based sauce, it’s the perfect dinner to warm up any evening.
Why Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala?
Traditional Chicken Tikka Masala involves marinating chicken and cooking it in a flavorful, spiced sauce. While the stovetop method is rewarding, using a crockpot simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor. The slow cooker ensures the chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the spices have plenty of time to meld together for an irresistible dish.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala
- Sauté the Aromatics First: While it’s tempting to throw everything into the slow cooker, sautéing the onions, garlic, ginger, and spices in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot enhances the depth of flavor.
- Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk or Cream: For that signature creamy texture, use full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream. Avoid light coconut milk, as it may result in a thinner sauce.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for at least an hour (or overnight) ensures each piece is flavorful inside and out.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Love a bit of heat? Add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili. Prefer it mild? Dial back the cayenne and use sweet paprika.
- Thicken the Sauce: If your sauce seems thin after cooking, remove the lid of your slow cooker during the last 30 minutes, or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
Variations to Suit Your Preferences
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer, tofu, or hearty vegetables like cauliflower and potatoes. Chickpeas also work wonderfully for added protein.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt for the marinade and coconut milk for the sauce.
- Low-Carb: Skip the sugar and serve with cauliflower rice instead of basmati.
- Add Extra Veggies: Bell peppers, peas, or spinach can be added during the last hour of cooking for more texture and nutrition.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala
The rich, spiced sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Rice: Traditional basmati rice is the classic choice, but jasmine rice works well too.
- Naan Bread: Scoop up the creamy sauce with soft, pillowy naan. Garlic or butter naan adds an extra layer of indulgence.
- Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb alternative that soaks up the flavors perfectly.
- Quinoa: For a protein-packed option, try serving with cooked quinoa.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for the perfect finishing touch.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Microwave: Reheat in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid uneven heating.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Crockpot: If reheating a larger portion, the slow cooker can gently warm the dish.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic option as they stay tender and juicy during slow cooking.
Do I need to brown the chicken first?
Browning the chicken isn’t essential, but it can add a lovely depth of flavor. If you have the time, it’s worth the extra step.
What can I use instead of yogurt in the marinade?
Coconut yogurt or cashew cream are great substitutes for a dairy-free option.
My sauce is too thin. How do I fix it?
To thicken the sauce, stir in a slurry made from 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water. Let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Increase the cayenne pepper or add fresh green chilies to kick up the heat.
Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala
Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala : This recipe brings the rich, creamy, and aromatic flavors of a classic Indian restaurant with tender chunks of chicken bathed in a spiced tomato-based sauce, it’s the perfect dinner to warm up any evening.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts (skinless, boneless), cut into 2-3 inch cubes
- 2½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 tbsp plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp Kashmiri red chili powder
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1½ tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp oil
- 2 medium yellow onions, finely diced
- 1½ cups tomato puree
Garnish:
- ½–¾ cup heavy cream
- 1–2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi)
- ½ cup chopped cilantro.
Instructions
- Toss chicken cubes with 2 tsp salt and lemon juice. Add yogurt, chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, ginger, and garlic.
- Mix well and let marinate while you prep the rest.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add diced onions and ½ tsp salt.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent. (If using an Instant Pot as your slow cooker, sauté directly in the pot.)
- Spread the cooked onions in an even layer.
- Pour tomato puree over the onions.
- Arrange marinated chicken on top.
- Cover with the lid and cook on High for 4 hours. Let the crockpot work its magic!
- After 4 hours, stir in heavy cream and crushed fenugreek leaves. Mix well.
- Taste and add tomato paste, more cream if needed, or even 1 tsp of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and enjoy with basmati rice or naan.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 516Total Fat: 25gSaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 174mgSodium: 732mgCarbohydrates: 21gFiber: 5gSugar: 10gProtein: 53g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala is the perfect balance of convenience and authentic flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The ease of the crockpot makes it accessible to both beginner cooks and busy weeknight chefs, while the rich flavors transport you straight to your favorite Indian restaurant.
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