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Why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a delicious and easy meal. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, it brings the taste of Indian cuisine right to your home. Using a slow cooker, this dish allows you to set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, it can serve a crowd or be enjoyed as leftovers, making it both practical and tasty.

How to make Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients :

1.5 lbs chicken breasts
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
Basmati rice or naan for serving

Directions :

In a slow cooker, combine diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
Add the chicken breasts and season with garam masala, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
Pour tomato sauce and coconut milk over the chicken.
Stir to combine all ingredients.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours, until chicken is tender.
Shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix with the sauce.
Serve over basmati rice or with naan.

How to serve Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Serve your Chicken Tikka Masala over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan. You can also garnish it with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for added freshness. This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

How to store Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

To store leftovers, let the Chicken Tikka Masala cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Tips to make Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

For a spicier dish, you can add diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer on high for the last hour without the lid.
Experiment with different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a variation.

Variation (if any)

You can try making a vegetarian version of this dish by replacing chicken with chickpeas or potatoes. Adjust the cooking time as needed since chickpeas will cook faster than chicken.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it may take longer to cook. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just heat it up in the slow cooker before serving.

Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?
It can be! The spice level depends on the garam masala and any additional spices you add. You can adjust the heat to your liking.