Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

I’ve had my fair share of takeout tikka masala, but nothing quite hit the spot—until this recipe.

Rich, creamy, and packed with bold spices, this slow cooker version brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen with minimal effort.

With just a handful of pantry staples and warming spices like garam masala, cumin, and paprika, the slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.

The result? Tender, juicy chicken swimming in a velvety, spiced tomato sauce that’s just the right amount of creamy, savory, and slightly smoky.

Whether you’re craving cozy comfort food or looking for an easy weeknight win, this Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Serve it over fluffy rice with warm naan, and let the flavors do the talking.

For the Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
Onion – Adds depth of flavor and sweetness as it cooks down.
Garlic and Ginger – The foundation of Indian flavors, giving the dish a warm and aromatic base.
Tomato Puree – Creates a rich, velvety sauce with a hint of tanginess.
Greek Yogurt – Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a creamy consistency to the sauce.
Olive Oil – Used for richness and to help blend the flavors together.

For the Spice Blend

Garam Masala – A warm, fragrant Indian spice blend that defines the dish.
Cumin – Adds an earthy, smoky depth.
Paprika – Contributes a mild sweetness and a beautiful color.
Salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
Cinnamon – Brings a subtle warmth and sweetness to balance the spices.
Black Pepper – Adds just a hint of boldness.
Cayenne Pepper – Provides a touch of heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
Bay Leaves – Infuse the sauce with additional flavor while it simmers.

For the Creamy Finish

Heavy Cream – Gives the dish its signature creamy, luscious texture.
Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Cilantro – Fresh and vibrant, perfect for garnish.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Love rich, creamy, and flavorful Indian food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is the answer! With tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-cream sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 6

Total Time: 6 15

Servings:

.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
1 (29 oz) can tomato puree
1½ cups plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 tablespoon cumin
½ tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons salt
¾ teaspoon cinnamon
¾ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 bay leaves
1 cup heavy cream
½ tablespoon cornstarch
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

In a slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, tomato puree, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garam masala, cumin, paprika, salt, cinnamon, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
Add the chicken pieces to the mixture, tossing to coat evenly. Place the bay leaves on top.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.
In the last 20 minutes of cooking, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch. Stir into the slow cooker and let cook for another 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Remove the bay leaves. Serve hot over rice and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with naan on the side!

Notes

Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the cayenne pepper.
Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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1.Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier, more flavorful dish. If you love tender, fall-apart chicken, go for thighs!

2.Do I need to sauté the onions and spices before adding them to the slow cooker?
Not a must, but highly recommended! A quick sauté deepens the flavors and gives the dish a richer taste. But if you’re short on time, just toss everything in and let the slow cooker work its magic.

3.Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the Greek yogurt and heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk. It keeps the sauce creamy while adding a subtle coconut flavor—delicious!

4.How do I control the spice level?
Easy! Less heat? Skip the cayenne pepper. More heat? Add extra cayenne or toss in some diced fresh chilies. You’re the boss of the spice!

5.Do I need to marinate the chicken first?
Nope! The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, infusing the chicken with tons of flavor as it simmers. But if you have extra time, marinating for a few hours can take it to the next level.