Craving Indian takeout but prefer a homemade meal? This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is your answer. Marinated chicken thighs are slow-cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, delivering rich flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your dinner table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1½-inch cubes
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
29 oz (822 ml) can of tomato puree
1½ cups (368 g) plain yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
½ tablespoon sweet paprika
2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
1–3 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
2 bay leaves
1 cup (237 ml) heavy cream
3 tablespoons cornstarch
Juice from half a small lemon
Chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Directions

In a large bowl, combine chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, tomato puree, yogurt, olive oil, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, salt, cinnamon, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to marinate.
Transfer the marinated mixture into the slow cooker. Add the bay leaves.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.
In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir gently.
Continue cooking for an additional 20 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Squeeze the lemon juice over the dish and stir to combine.
Serve hot over white or brown rice, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro.

Nutrients

Calories: 356 kcal
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Protein: 27 g
Fat: 21 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 9 g

Origin and Evolution of Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala’s story is an intriguing one. While it is often considered an iconic Indian dish, its exact origin is debated. Some claim that the dish was created in the UK, specifically in Glasgow, Scotland, during the 1970s by a Pakistani chef who adapted the traditional chicken tikka to suit the tastes of his British customers. The story goes that the chef added a can of tomato soup to the chicken tikka to make it more appealing to Western palates, leading to the birth of Chicken Tikka Masala.

Others argue that the dish’s roots are deeply embedded in Indian culinary traditions. While the specific form of chicken tikka masala may not be found in traditional Indian cookbooks, the practice of marinating chicken and cooking it in a spiced, creamy sauce has been a part of Indian cuisine for centuries. The use of yogurt and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala in the marinade, and a rich, spiced gravy, are typical of North Indian cooking. Over time, the dish evolved to become the creamy, tomato-based sauce that is so popular today.

Regardless of its precise origin, Chicken Tikka Masala has become a dish that represents the fusion of cultures and flavors. Its versatility and comforting qualities make it a go-to dish for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful meal.

Why Choose Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala?

The beauty of the slow cooker method in making Chicken Tikka Masala lies in its ability to enhance the flavors without requiring constant attention. Unlike traditional stovetop cooking, where you need to keep an eye on the dish to prevent it from burning or overcooking, the slow cooker allows the ingredients to cook slowly over hours, blending the spices and infusing the chicken with flavor.

Slow cooking is also an excellent way to tenderize tougher cuts of meat, making it perfect for chicken thighs, which are used in the recipe. The low, slow heat helps break down the connective tissue in the chicken, resulting in juicy, fall-apart tender meat. This method also allows the sauce to thicken and develop a deep, rich flavor, without the need for heavy stirring or constant attention.

One of the advantages of making Chicken Tikka Masala in a slow cooker is the convenience. Simply prepare the ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let it do its magic. This allows you to focus on other tasks, making it a great option for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

The Allure of Indian Spices

The magic of Chicken Tikka Masala lies in the complex blend of spices used to flavor the chicken and the sauce. Indian cuisine is known for its rich use of spices, and this dish is no exception. The key spices in Chicken Tikka Masala include garam masala, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and paprika. Each spice adds a layer of flavor, making the dish both aromatic and flavorful.

Garam masala, a mixture of ground spices, is the cornerstone of many Indian dishes. It typically contains cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander, and cardamom, although the exact combination varies depending on the region. In Chicken Tikka Masala, garam masala adds warmth and depth to the sauce, contributing to the dish’s signature flavor profile.

Cumin, with its earthy, smoky notes, adds another layer of flavor, while turmeric brings a subtle bitterness and beautiful golden color to the sauce. Paprika, often used for its mild heat and vibrant color, helps balance the spices while adding a touch of sweetness. Cinnamon introduces a sweet, warm undertone that complements the richness of the cream, while cayenne pepper can add a kick of heat, depending on how much you use.

The combination of these spices creates a perfect harmony of flavors that define Chicken Tikka Masala. When slow-cooked, the spices infuse the chicken and sauce, making every bite a delightful experience.

Healthier Options and Variations

While Chicken Tikka Masala is undoubtedly delicious, it is also a rich dish, thanks to its creamy sauce. For those looking to make it a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor, there are several adjustments that can be made. One option is to substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative, such as coconut milk or Greek yogurt. This will still give the sauce a creamy texture but with fewer calories and fat.

For a lower-carb version, you can serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. This not only reduces the carbohydrate content but also adds a nutritious vegetable to the dish. For a gluten-free option, ensure that the spices and ingredients used, such as garam masala and tomato puree, are free from gluten additives.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Tikka Masala is traditionally served with rice, and basmati rice is the most popular choice. Its light, fluffy texture pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy sauce of the dish. If you want to add a little variety, you can also serve it with naan, a type of Indian flatbread that’s perfect for dipping into the sauce.

To enhance the meal, you might want to serve a side of cooling raita—a yogurt-based condiment that helps balance the heat and spice in the dish. Raita is made with yogurt, cucumbers, and a variety of herbs and spices, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Chicken Tikka Masala.

Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish that is both comforting and exciting, with its combination of spices, tender chicken, and rich sauce. Whether you’re making it from scratch or using the slow cooker method, the result is a flavorful, satisfying meal that is sure to please a crowd. The versatility of this dish makes it suitable for a variety of occasions, from family dinners to special gatherings.

0 Shares