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.
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.
Onion, finely chopped
each
tablespoons
Serrano Chile, stemmed, seeded, and minced
each
tablespoons
teaspoons
Garlic, minced
cloves
Ginger, grated
tablespoons
teaspoons
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
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.
Marinating the chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices enhances flavor and tenderness.
Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden before adding to the slow cooker for added sweetness and depth.
Toasting spices before adding them to the slow cooker releases essential oils and maximizes flavors.
Ensure the chicken is cooked through but avoid overcooking which can lead to dryness.
Opt for high-quality canned or fresh ripe tomatoes for a robust tomato base.
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