Crock Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe : Are you yearning for the opulent aromas of Indian cuisine but you are pressed for time? This recipe for Chicken Tikka Masala that is prepared in a slow cooker is come to save the day! It is possible to experience the true flavor of this traditional dish without spending a significant amount of time in the kitchen if you make use of a slow cooker and perform only a small amount of preparation work. As you go about your day, you can leave your slow cooker to work its magic, and when you return home, you will find a meal that is not only fragrant but also tasty, which will delight your taste buds.
Crock Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan, for serving
Also see : Best Crunchy Asian Ramen Noodle Salad Recipe
Instructions
Place the chopped onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and tomato paste in the slow cooker. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. The following spices should be added to the dish: garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. To blend, give it a thorough stir. You should make sure that the chicken pieces are well covered by the sauce before placing them in the slow cooker.
Cover the chicken and cook it over low heat for six to eight hours or over high heat for three to four hours, or until it is soft and cooked all the way through. Take a taste of the chicken after it has been cooked, and if necessary, adjust the seasoning. You can serve the chicken tikka masala with naan bread or top it with rice that has been prepared. In the moments before serving, garnish with freshly cut cilantro.
Tips
You may make the sauce more thick by removing the cover from the slow cooker during the final hour of cooking. This will allow some of the liquid to evaporate, which will result in a thicker sauce. Prior to serving, you can incorporate a few spoonful of heavy cream or yogurt into the mixture if you would like it to have a creamier consistency.
You are free to alter the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste, and the level of heat can be adjusted to suit your preferences. In the refrigerator, leftovers can be kept for up to three days if they are placed in an airtight container. Alternatively, they can be frozen for extended preservation.
FAQ
Q.1) Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
It is possible to use chicken breasts if you want, despite the fact that chicken thighs are typically more tasty and tender than chicken breasts. However, it is important to avoid overcooking the chicken breast because it has a greater tendency to get dry.
Q.2) Can I make this recipe in advance?
There is no problem with preparing the ingredients and putting them in the refrigerator for the same night. After transferring everything to the slow cooker in the morning, you may then start with the cooking instructions.
Q.3) Can I omit the coconut milk?
Although the sauce is enhanced with smoothness and depth by the addition of coconut milk, you have the option of substituting it with heavy cream or yogurt if you so desire. Take into consideration that this will result in a little change in flavour.