Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of India! This slow-cooked Chicken Tikka Masala is not just a recipe, it's a flavor explosion that promises to revolutionize your home cooking. Imagine tender, succulent chicken bathed in a rich, creamy sauce that's been simmering for hours, developing layers of complex, aromatic spices that will make your kitchen smell like a gourmet Indian restaurant.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by trimming any excess fat from the boneless chicken thighs and cutting them into 1-inch cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with grated ginger, minced garlic, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
- Chop the onion finely and spread it evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker insert.
- Layer the spice-coated chicken pieces over the chopped onions.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are covered with the sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 5-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
- During the last hour of cooking, gently stir the mixture to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once cooking is complete, check the chicken for tenderness. The meat should be easily shredded with a fork.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or spices to preference.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro, alongside steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread.
Tips
- Spice Preparation: Toast your whole spices before grinding to intensify their flavors and create a more authentic taste profile.
- Chicken Selection: Use boneless chicken thighs for maximum tenderness and flavor - they're more forgiving in slow cooking than breast meat.
- Marination Hack: If possible, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for 2-4 hours before cooking to allow deeper flavor penetration.
- Coconut Milk Magic: Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier sauce that truly elevates the dish.
- Garnish Game: Fresh cilantro is crucial - chop it just before serving to maintain its bright, fresh flavor and vibrant color.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to settle and the sauce to slightly thicken. Pro Tip: This recipe is even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for an even more developed flavor profile!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 140mg
