Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala

This Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala is rich, creamy, and packed with warm Indian-inspired spices. Tender chicken simmers in a flavorful tomato cream sauce until perfectly juicy, making it an easy slow cooker dinner that’s perfect served over fluffy basmati rice with warm naan.

Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala

Make this Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala with tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and warm spices. A flavorful slow cooker family dinner.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 people

Calories: 430

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 14-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish

Method

 

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the onion for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, garam masala, curry powder, cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Transfer the onion mixture to the crockpot.
6. Add the chicken pieces.
7. Pour in the tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes. Stir well to coat the chicken.
8. Cover and cook on Low for 5 to 6 hours or High for 2½ to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
9. Turn the slow cooker to Warm.
10. Stir together the heavy cream and Greek yogurt, then gently mix them into the sauce.
11. Let the curry sit for 10 minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice with warm naan.

Notes

• Chicken thighs stay extra juicy during slow cooking.
• Add the dairy at the end to prevent curdling.
• Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture.
• Fresh ginger provides the best flavor.
• Adjust the chili powder to your preferred spice level.

Variations

• Add spinach during the last 15 minutes.
• Stir in peas before serving.
• Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Add chickpeas for extra protein.
• Make it spicier with cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions

• Steamed basmati rice
• Garlic naan
• Cucumber raita
• Roasted cauliflower
• Mango chutney

Tips

• Brown the onions before slow cooking for deeper flavor.
• Stir the cream in gently to keep the sauce smooth.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze without the dairy for up to 3 months.
• Reheat over low heat to keep the sauce creamy.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 6 hours

Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Servings

Serves: 6 people

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 37g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 26g
• Sodium: 690mg

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent choice because they stay tender and juicy throughout the slow cooking process.

Why should I add the cream and yogurt at the end?

Adding dairy after the cooking is finished helps prevent the sauce from separating or curdling while keeping it rich and creamy.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. Replace the heavy cream and Greek yogurt with full-fat canned coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free version.

Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?

This recipe has a mild to medium heat. You can reduce the chili powder for a milder dish or add cayenne pepper for extra spice.

Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala?

Yes. For the best texture, freeze the sauce before adding the cream and yogurt. Stir in the dairy after reheating.

What should I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

Basmati rice and warm naan bread are classic choices, but it also pairs well with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala delivers tender chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with bold Indian-inspired spices. It’s an easy slow cooker meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners and tastes even better the next day.