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Crockpot Creamy Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala

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This easy Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala features tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced coconut sauce. Perfectly paired with rice or naan for a satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 ounces) full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté 5 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne. Stir 2 minutes until aromatic.
  3. Add chicken pieces; coat in spice mixture and cook 5 minutes until slightly browned but not fully cooked.
  4. Transfer chicken and spice-onion mixture to slow cooker. Stir in crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, and tomato paste.
  5. Cover and cook on low 6–8 hours or high 3–4 hours until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  6. Just before serving, stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning. Serve garnished with cilantro, alongside rice or naan.

Notes

  • Can be made a day ahead; flavors deepen overnight.
  • Add more coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer sauce.
  • Increase cayenne or add green chilies for more spice.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge up to 3 days.
  • Optional: add peas, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  • Gluten-free and can be adapted for dairy-free diets.
  • Author: lina
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes (prep + slow cooker time counted separately)
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

Find it online: https://easyrecipes.cookingtastes.com/easy-crockpot-creamy-coconut-chicken-tikka-masala/