Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a beautifully spiced and creamy dish, that combines tender chicken with rich, aromatic flavors. This slow cooker version makes it easier than ever to prepare a favorite takeout classic at home. With just a few steps, you can enjoy succulent chicken in a deeply flavored sauce that’s perfect for serving with naan or basmati rice.

What is Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala?

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful curry made with marinated chicken cooked in a fragrant blend of spices, tomatoes, and coconut milk. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the robust flavors of the masala, creating a tender and juicy result. The creamy sauce is rich and mildly spiced, making it a perfect dish for those who enjoy complex flavors without too much heat.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Effortless cooking: The slow cooker takes care of the hard work, leaving you with more time for other things.
Flavorful and tender chicken: Slow cooking makes the chicken extra tender while infusing it with all the spices.
Healthy and homemade: Control the ingredients and avoid the additives often found in takeout versions.

Customizable heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your preference, making it mild or as spicy as you like.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
Family favorite: This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken thighs (800g / 1.75 lbs): Boneless and skinless, offering tender and flavorful results.
Greek yogurt (200g / ¾ cup): Used for marinating the chicken, adding richness and tang.
Garlic cloves (3): Minced to infuse the marinade and sauce with aromatic flavor.

Fresh ginger (1-inch piece): Grated for warmth and depth in the dish.
Tikka masala paste (2 tbsp): Add a concentrated blend of spices, forming the flavor base.
Ground cumin (1 tsp): Adds earthiness and depth.

Ground coriander (1 tsp): A bright, citrusy note to complement the spices.
Chili powder (optional, ½ tsp): Adjust the heat to your liking.
Canned tomatoes (400g / 14 oz can): Provides a rich and tangy base for the sauce.

Coconut milk (400ml / 14 oz can): Creamy and mild, balancing the spices in the curry.
Onion (1 large): Chopped, adding sweetness and texture.
Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Adds brightness and acidity.

Fresh coriander (a handful): Chopped for garnishing and freshness.
Salt and pepper: To taste.

Equipment

Slow cooker

Mixing bowl
Knife and chopping board
Wooden spoon

Measuring spoons

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, garlic, ginger, tikka masala paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, and lemon juice. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Sauté the onions: In a pan, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until softened about 5 minutes.

Transfer to the slow cooker: Add the sautéed onion, marinated chicken, canned tomatoes, and coconut milk to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine.
Set the slow cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Adjust seasoning: Once the cooking time is complete, season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Basmati rice: Fluffy rice absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
Naan bread: Soft and pillowy naan is ideal for scooping up the rich curry.
Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side that balances the spices in the curry.

Mango chutney: Sweet and tangy, it adds a delightful contrast to the savory flavors.
Papadums: Light and crispy, they make a great appetizer alongside the curry.
Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime brightens up the dish and adds a pop of acidity.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Marinate overnight: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate in the yogurt and spices overnight.
Sear the chicken: For an extra layer of flavor, quickly sear the marinated chicken in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker.
Adjust the heat: If you like it spicy, add extra chili powder or fresh chopped chilies to the sauce.

Use full-fat yogurt: Full-fat yogurt helps tenderize the chicken and adds richness to the dish.
Don’t rush the cooking: Cooking the curry on low for 6-7 hours ensures the chicken stays tender and absorbs all the flavors.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Vegan option: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Spicier version: Add more chili powder or fresh green chilies for a fiery kick.
Add vegetables: Toss in vegetables like bell peppers, cauliflower, or potatoes to make the dish heartier.
Creamier option: For an extra rich sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or extra coconut milk at the end of cooking.

Use chicken breasts: You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze for later: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat gently: Reheat the curry on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Stovetop reheating: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Microwave method: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish in 1-minute increments, stirring in between for even heating.

Add liquid if needed: If the curry thickens after storage, add a little water or coconut milk to adjust the consistency while reheating.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Healthier?

Use light coconut milk: Swap full-fat coconut milk for a lighter version to reduce calories and fat.
Increase vegetables: Add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini to increase the fiber and nutrition content.

Reduce oil: Sauté the onions with less oil or use a non-stick pan to keep the fat content lower.
Use skinless chicken breasts: Opt for leaner cuts like skinless chicken breasts for a lower-fat alternative.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 400

Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 15g

Sugar: 6g
Protein: 30g

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in slow cooker chicken tikka masala?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs. However, chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily, so reduce the cooking time slightly and monitor the chicken to avoid overcooking.

How can I thicken the sauce in slow cooker chicken tikka masala?

To thicken the sauce, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) to achieve a thicker consistency.

Can I prepare Jamie Oliver slow cooker chicken tikka masala ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the curry ahead of time. Cook the dish fully, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. The flavors often deepen and improve after being stored, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Is it possible to make slow cooker chicken tikka masala dairy-free?

Yes, to make the dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the marinade and substitute the cream or coconut milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or cashew milk.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a delicious and easy way to enjoy one of the most popular curries at home. The slow cooker helps develop rich, layered flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or special meal.

Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the deep, comforting flavors of this classic curry!

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