Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 0.5 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh cilantro
  • for serving cooked basmati rice or naan

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is well coated with the spices.
  2. In the bottom of the slow cooker, heat the vegetable oil on the stove over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Transfer the sautéed onion to the slow cooker. Add the marinated chicken, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, yogurt, and tomato paste. Stir until well combined.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  5. Once cooked, shred the chicken slightly with two forks and stir to mix well into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
  6. Serve the chicken tikka masala over cooked basmati rice or with warm naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.

💡 Chef's Notes

Adjust cayenne pepper to taste for desired spiciness.

Recipe by Stella Richards - Founder & Recipe Developer