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Creamy Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

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Pixicook editorial team

A rich and creamy Chicken Tikka Masala cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, featuring tender chicken in a flavorful tomato and spice sauce, finished with yogurt and cilantro.

Ingredients for Creamy Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

units in
USchevron
serves
6 peoplechevron

Onion, finely chopped

each

Vegetable Oil

tablespoons

Serrano Chile, stemmed, seeded, and minced

each

Tomato Paste

tablespoons

Garam Masala

teaspoons

Garlic, minced

cloves

Ginger, grated

tablespoons

Sugar

teaspoons

Salt

to taste

Diced Tomatoes, drained

0 oz

Chicken Breasts, boneless, skinless, trimmed and cut into 1.5-inch pieces

0 lb

Whole-Milk Yogurt, plain

cups

Cilantro, minced

cups

How to Make Creamy Slow-Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

1. Preparatory Step

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the onion, vegetable oil, serrano chile, tomato paste, garam masala, garlic, ginger, sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Microwave, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens, about 5 minutes.

2. Slow Cooker Blend

Transfer the softened onion mixture to the slow cooker. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the slow cooker, ensuring they are well coated with the tomato-spice mixture. Cover and set the slow cooker to low. Cook until the chicken is tender, approximately 2 to 3 hours.

3. Yogurt Fusion

In a separate bowl, whisk 1/2 cup of the sauce from the slow cooker with the yogurt to temper it. This prevents curdling when added back into the hot mixture. Stir the yogurt blend back into the slow cooker gently and let it sit until heated through, about 5 minutes.

4. Garnish and Serve

Stir in the minced cilantro and season with additional salt and pepper according to taste. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala warm, perhaps with a side of basmati rice or naan bread.

Pitfalls and tips

Marinate Your Chicken

Marinating the chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices enhances flavor and tenderness.

Layer Flavors

Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden before adding to the slow cooker for added sweetness and depth.

Toast Your Spices

Toasting spices before adding them to the slow cooker releases essential oils and maximizes flavors.

Monitor the Cooking Time

Ensure the chicken is cooked through but avoid overcooking which can lead to dryness.

Use High-Quality Tomatoes

Opt for high-quality canned or fresh ripe tomatoes for a robust tomato base.

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