Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Discover the rich, creamy goodness of Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala—an effortless version of the UK’s beloved national dish. Prepared with the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for busy days. Pair it with basmati rice for a complete meal. In this article, we’ll explore how to transform simple ingredients into a tantalizing feast using the focus keyphrase, Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka.
Why Try Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala?
Firstly, the slow cooker takes the fuss out of cooking, allowing you to enjoy more free time while ensuring your meal is packed with flavor. Secondly, this Chicken Tikka Masala uses an array of spices that bring warmth and depth to every bite. Above all, it’s a dish that pleases both the eyes and the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here are the key ingredients:
- 1½ pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut in bite-sized pieces
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lemon juice from one lemon
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Follow these simple steps to create your own delectable Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala:
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add chicken breasts, tomato sauce, yogurt, jalapeno, and minced ginger.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in cumin, garam masala, black pepper, paprika, garlic, cinnamon, and coriander. Add salt to taste.
- Cook: Cover and set the slow cooker on low heat for 6 hours, allowing all ingredients to meld into a fragrant, savory sauce.
- Finish with Cream: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy whipping cream. Continue to cook until the sauce is slightly thickened.
- Garnish: Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon juice before serving.
Health Benefits of Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
Furthermore, this recipe includes several health-boosting ingredients. For example, ginger offers anti-inflammatory properties, while chicken breasts are a lean protein source conducive to muscle repair and growth. In addition, fresh cilantro can help with digestion and detoxification.
Healthier Cooking Tips
For a lighter version, consider substituting heavy cream with a mixture of skim milk and cornstarch or using coconut milk. For the yogurt, opt for a low-fat version to reduce calorie intake without sacrificing the creamy texture.
In Conclusion
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful dish that’s both nutritious and convenient, making it an ideal choice for any meal. Above all, the slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also intensifies the flavors, giving you a dish that is sure to impress. Try it today and experience the joy of making a restaurant-worthy meal effortlessly at home.
