Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala. I still remember the first time I tasted this rich and aromatic dish. It was a chilly evening, and I had just come home from a long day. The moment I walked through the door, the savory aroma wafting from the kitchen wrapped around me like a warm hug. It was then I knew that this was a dish I had to recreate. The best part? It’s all done in one pot, letting the flavors meld together beautifully while you go about your day.
As I prepped the ingredients, I couldn’t help but feel excited about the explosion of flavors that awaited me. With chicken, spices, and creamy sauce simmering together, it’s hard not to feel anticipation build. Whether you’re serving it over fluffy rice or with warm naan, every bite is a treasure. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a gourmet chef, even if you’ve only spent a few minutes assembling the ingredients. This dish has quickly become a staple in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
Recipe Snapshot
3 hr 15 mins
15 mins
180 mins
Hard
482 kcal
36 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
34 g
Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Slow Cooker, Wooden Spoon
Why This Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala Shines
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the things I absolutely love about this recipe is how straightforward it is. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a fantastic meal that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. You simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it do its magic. This is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy a homemade meal without the fuss.
Rich and Flavorful
The combination of spices in Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala is nothing short of magical. The warm notes of garam masala, cumin, and ginger create a depth of flavor that is absolutely mouthwatering. It’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds dance with joy!
Perfect for Meal Prep
This is a fantastic recipe for meal prepping. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for several days. It reheats beautifully, allowing the flavors to deepen even more, making it a great option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Customizable and Versatile
Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify it to suit your preferences. Want it spicier? Add some chili peppers. Prefer a different protein? You can swap the chicken for tofu or vegetables. The options are endless!
A Crowd-Pleaser
Whenever I serve Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala, my family and friends can’t get enough. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table, and it’s great for gatherings or cozy family dinners. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress!
Comfort Food at Its Best
Finally, there’s just something undeniably comforting about this dish. The creamy heavy cream combined with the fragrant spices creates a warm, inviting meal that feels like a true hug in a bowl. It’s the perfect antidote to a long day!
Essential Ingredients for Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala
The ingredients for Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala are not only simple, but they work beautifully together to create a harmonious flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a crucial role. The chicken serves as the protein base, while the greek yogurt tenderizes it and adds a creamy texture. The spices, including garam masala and cumin, infuse the dish with warmth and depth. Together, these ingredients create a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
- â…“ cup plain greek yogurt: This adds creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken, creating a luscious sauce.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish, ensuring each bite is savory.
- 2 teaspoons garam masala: A key spice blend that brings warmth and complexity to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy flavor that complements the other spices beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty kick and balances the dish.
- ½ teaspoon turmeric: Imparts a vibrant golden color and a subtle earthy flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 2 pounds chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch cubes: The main protein that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 1 onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
- 14 ounce can tomato sauce: Forms the base of the sauce, contributing acidity and moisture.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and creamy, balancing the spices.
- Chopped cilantro: A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala
Making Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala is as easy as pie. You’ll be amazed at how simply everything comes together! Start by combining the ingredients, and let the crockpot do the rest. Follow these steps to achieve a beautifully cooked dish that’s packed with flavor.
In a mixing bowl, combine greek yogurt, salt, garam masala, cumin, ginger, and turmeric. This mixture will serve as a marinade for your chicken. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. You should have a smooth, creamy mixture.
Next, add the minced garlic to the yogurt spice blend. I like to do this in the bottom of the crockpot itself to save on dishes. Give it a good stir to incorporate the garlic fully. The aroma will start to envelop your kitchen!
Now, it’s time to add the chicken and onion. Toss the diced chicken into the crockpot, followed by the diced onion. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together, ensuring that the chicken is well-coated with the yogurt mixture.
Spread the mixture evenly over the bottom of the crockpot. This will help in even cooking and allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Take a moment to admire the vibrant colors before moving on!
Pour the tomato sauce over the top of the chicken. This forms the base of your sauce. Close the lid securely to keep all the delicious steam inside.
Set the crockpot to cook on high for three to three and a half hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and easily shreds apart with a fork. You can check the temperature of the chicken, which should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the lid and stir the contents of the crockpot. It’s at this point that we’ll add in the heavy cream. This will create that luscious, creamy sauce we all love!
Stir the cream into the mixture until fully incorporated. You should see the sauce turn a lovely golden color, with everything coming together beautifully. This is the moment it all starts to look like a restaurant-quality dish!
Serve your Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala over fluffy rice, with warm naan, or in a bowl on its own. Ensure to garnish with fresh cilantro for that pop of flavor and color. Enjoy every bite!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cook on Low: If you prefer, you can cook this dish on low for about six to seven hours instead of high. It will allow the flavors to develop even more.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid for the last half hour of cooking to let some liquid evaporate.
- Extra Spices: Feel free to add extra spices like chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ginger and garlic rather than jarred enhances the flavor significantly.
Tips and Variations
Making Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala at home opens up a world of possibilities! Here are some tips and variations to enhance your dish:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days. Make sure it cools down first before sealing.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken tikka masala in a freezer-safe container for up to six months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Pairing: Serve with fluffy rice, warm naan, or even steamed vegetables to round out your meal.
- Dairy-Free Option: You can swap greek yogurt for coconut yogurt and heavy cream for coconut cream to make this recipe dairy-free.
- Scaling the Recipe: Easily double or halve the recipe, just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
- Serving Suggestions: For a different twist, serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Great Combinations for Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala
Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala is not just a dish, it’s a delightful experience that pairs well with various sides and occasions. Here are some great combinations to consider:
- Serve over rice: Fluffy basmati or jasmine rice absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully.
- Warm naan: Perfect for scooping up the tikka masala and adds a comforting texture.
- Fresh salad: A light cucumber salad with yogurt dressing complements the richness of the dish.
- Vegetable side: Roasted or steamed vegetables can add a nice crunch and balance the meal.
- Casual gatherings: This dish is fantastic for potlucks or family gatherings, as it feeds a crowd easily.
- Cozy dinners: Perfect for a cozy night in, paired with a movie or a good book.
- Storage tips: Leftovers taste even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a larger batch!
FAQ
Conclusion
The Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala is truly a standout dish that combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and the ease of slow cooking. It’s a fantastic option for any busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home as it has in mine! Enjoy the delightful journey of cooking and the delicious results that follow.
Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine greek yogurt, salt, garam masala, cumin, ginger, and turmeric. This mixture will serve as a marinade for your chicken. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. You should have a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Next, add the minced garlic to the yogurt spice blend. I like to do this in the bottom of the crockpot itself to save on dishes. Give it a good stir to incorporate the garlic fully. The aroma will start to envelop your kitchen!
- Now, it’s time to add the chicken and onion. Toss the diced chicken into the crockpot, followed by the diced onion. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together, ensuring that the chicken is well-coated with the yogurt mixture.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the bottom of the crockpot. This will help in even cooking and allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Take a moment to admire the vibrant colors before moving on!
- Pour the tomato sauce over the top of the chicken. This forms the base of your sauce. Close the lid securely to keep all the delicious steam inside.
- Set the crockpot to cook on high for three to three and a half hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and easily shreds apart with a fork. You can check the temperature of the chicken, which should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Once the cooking time is complete, remove the lid and stir the contents of the crockpot. It’s at this point that we’ll add in the heavy cream. This will create that luscious, creamy sauce we all love!
- Stir the cream into the mixture until fully incorporated. You should see the sauce turn a lovely golden color, with everything coming together beautifully. This is the moment it all starts to look like a restaurant-quality dish!
- Serve your Easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala over fluffy rice, with warm naan, or in a bowl on its own. Ensure to garnish with fresh cilantro for that pop of flavor and color. Enjoy every bite!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days. Make sure it cools down first before sealing.
- Tip 2: Freeze cooked chicken tikka masala in a freezer-safe container for up to six months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Tip 3: Serve with fluffy rice, warm naan, or even steamed vegetables to round out your meal.
- Tip 4: You can swap greek yogurt for coconut yogurt and heavy cream for coconut cream to make this recipe dairy-free.
- Tip 5: Easily double or halve the recipe, just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
