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Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

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A rich and flavorful slow cooker chicken tikka masala recipe that is creamy, tender, and perfect for cozy dinners. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and a hands-off cooking method.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Cut 2 pounds of boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a bowl with 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside for 10 minutes to marinate.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon turmeric and ½ teaspoon chili powder to the aromatics. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
  4. Transfer the sautéed mixture to your slow cooker. Add the marinated chicken pieces and 1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through and the sauce thickens.
  6. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream or Greek yogurt. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, and add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  7. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro before serving. Serve warm with basmati rice or naan bread.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 10 minutes to infuse flavor. Sauté aromatics before slow cooking to enhance flavor. Add cream or yogurt near the end to prevent curdling. Adjust chili powder to taste. If sauce is too thin, remove lid during last 30 minutes to thicken; if too thick, add a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, chicken tikka masala, creamy, easy dinner, Indian recipe, comfort food, slow cooker chicken

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/creamy-slow-cooker-chicken-tikka-masala-recipe-easy-perfect-dinner-idea/