Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 shallot, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus pinch as needed)
- 1/4 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 can (14 ounces) full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
- 1/3 cup cilantro, chopped
Butter Topping
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In the bowl of your crockpot, combine the cubed chicken, Greek yogurt, chopped yellow onion, chopped shallot, chopped garlic, fresh grated ginger, garam masala, ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and a pinch of chili flakes. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add Tomato Paste and Water: Stir in the tomato paste and 1/3 cup water. Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Finish with Coconut Milk: Turn the heat to high and stir in the full-fat unsweetened coconut milk. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes to warm and combine the flavors. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
- Prepare Butter Topping: While the chicken is finishing, melt the salted butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds, chili flakes, and paprika, cooking until the butter is browned and fragrant. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Serve the creamy coconut chicken tikka masala hot over bowls of cooked rice. Drizzle the spiced butter mixture over the top and enjoy with fresh naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For quicker cooking, use the Instant Pot method by pressure cooking on high for 8-10 minutes, then sautéing with coconut milk.
- Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Use chicken thighs for more juicy and flavorful results.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.
- Serve with basmati rice and naan for a traditional complement.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free