Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala | Slimming World Friendly Recipe

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is not only delicious and easy to make, but it’s also packed with plenty of speedy veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onion. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe lets your slow cooker do all the hard work, delivering a meal that’s both nutritious and full of authentic Indian flavours. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this lighter, yet creamy and satisfying, version of a classic favourite!

Why you’ll love this recipe….

• Healthy and Nutritious: This recipe uses low-fat Greek yogurt and reduced-fat coconut milk to create a creamy texture without the added calories and fat from heavy cream. Plus, the addition of mushrooms and bell peppers boosts the dish’s nutritional value.

• Easy to Make: With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it. Simply prep the ingredients, toss them into the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you go about your day.

• Rich and Authentic Flavours: Despite being a healthier version, this Chicken Tikka Masala doesn’t compromise on taste. The blend of aromatic spices like garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric provides a deep, authentic Indian flavour that will satisfy your taste buds.

• Versatile and Customisable: This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences. You can adjust the spice levels, add extra vegetables, or even swap out the chicken for a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.

• Great for Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch, and you’ll have delicious, healthy meals ready to go for the week. It also freezes well, making it a convenient option for those busy days.

Can I Swap the Chicken For Something Else?

Absolutely! This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is highly versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and needs. Here are some delicious alternatives to chicken:

• Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works great as a vegetarian alternative. Press and cube the tofu, then marinate it in the same spices as the chicken for a flavourful and protein-packed substitute.
• Chickpeas: For a plant-based option that’s also rich in protein and fiber, use canned or cooked chickpeas. They absorb the flavours of the sauce wonderfully and add a nice texture to the dish.
• Paneer: This Indian cheese is a popular alternative in vegetarian tikka masala. Cut paneer into cubes and marinate it just like the chicken. It holds its shape well and adds a delicious creaminess to the dish.
• Cauliflower: For a lower-carb, veggie-rich version, cauliflower florets can be used. They soak up the spices and become tender and flavourful when slow-cooked in the sauce.
• Lentils: Cooked lentils can be a hearty and nutritious alternative. They blend seamlessly into the sauce, making the dish both filling and satisfying.
• Quorn or Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP): For a meat substitute, try Quorn pieces or textured vegetable protein (TVP). These options are plant-based and can mimic the texture of meat in the soup.
• Alternative Meat: Turkey, prawns or duck could also be used.

Each of these alternatives brings its own unique texture and flavour to the dish, allowing you to enjoy the deliciousness of tikka masala regardless of your dietary preferences.

Can I Swap Out or Add Any Other Vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible, and you can easily swap out or add a variety of vegetables to suit your taste or make use of what’s in your fridge. Here are some great options to consider:

• Carrots: Add sliced or diced carrots for a touch of sweetness and extra crunch.
• Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach leaves during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They will wilt down and add a boost of nutrients.
• Peas: Frozen or fresh peas can be added towards the end of the cooking time for a pop of colour and sweetness.
• Sweet Potatoes: Diced sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and heartiness to the dish.
• Cauliflower: Add cauliflower florets for a low-carb option that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans add a nice texture and vibrant colour.
• Broccoli: Add broccoli florets for extra crunch and nutrition.

By adding or swapping vegetables, you can customize this dish to your liking and make it even more nutritious and flavourful.

Batch Cook – Storage Information

Batch cooking this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a great way to save time and ensure you have delicious, healthy meals ready to go throughout the week. Here are some tips for successful batch cooking:

• Fridge: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to spoilage. Divide the cooled Chicken Tikka Masala into airtight containers. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy the curry again, reheat it on the hob over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot.
• Freezer: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Portioning into single servings can make reheating easier. Label each container or bag with the date and contents. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Using a Slow Cooker….

At the moment I am loving the Tower Cavaletto 6.5 litre Slow Cooker. The colour is stunning and I am loving the fact you can use the pan of the slow cooker to sear your meat. Less mess and washing up!

Don’t forget to subscribe to my emails… don’t miss a recipe!

Have you created this recipe?

Please let me know how it turned out! Leave a comment below or share a photo on Instagram tagging me at @fatgirlskinny__ and the hashtag #fatgirlskinny.