Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

This flavorful chicken tikka masala is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal with minimal effort. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and come back to a delicious, aromatic dinner ready to enjoy.

Start cooking ↓

TIME3 hr 15 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes 1 small onion, chopped 2 tablespoons garam masala 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger root 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon brown sugar ½ teaspoon ground cumin ½ teaspoon ground coriander 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs ½ cup plain low-fat Greek yogurt ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by combining the tomatoes, onion, garam masala, garlic, ginger, salt, brown sugar, cumin, and coriander right in your slow cooker. Give everything a good stir so the spices and veggies are well mixed. Next, tuck the chicken thighs into the tomato mixture, making sure they’re nicely coated. Cover and cook on High for about 3 to 4 hours, or if you have more time, set it to Low and let it go for 6 to 8 hours. When the chicken is tender and cooked through, stir in the yogurt and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Give it one last mix, and it’s ready to serve!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier and more flavorful meat.
- If you like it spicier, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Stir the sauce halfway through cooking to ensure even flavor distribution.

Why you’ll love it

This dish brings the rich flavors of Indian cuisine right to your slow cooker with minimal effort. The chicken becomes tender and soaks up the creamy, spiced tomato sauce, making every bite comforting and flavorful. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.

Serving ideas

Serve with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the sauce. A side of fresh cucumber raita or a simple green salad can add a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.

Storage & leftovers

Allow the dish to cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.