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Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala

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.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 430

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.