If you’re craving a dish that fills your kitchen with the comforting aromas of Indian spices while being incredibly easy to prepare, this Slow Cooker Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe is your new best friend. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with tender chickpeas simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce enriched with garam masala, garlic, and ginger, it’s a hearty vegetarian delight that satisfies both the taste buds and the soul. Using a slow cooker makes this classic dish effortless to craft, allowing the spices to meld beautifully over time and delivering a truly authentic experience without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Slow Cooker Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully selected ingredients that come together to create a perfect balance of flavors. Each component adds something special—whether it’s the fragrant warmth of garam masala or the tangy creaminess of yogurt, contributing to the dish’s vibrant taste and inviting texture.
- 3 tablespoons oil: A neutral oil works best to gently sauté the onions and spices without overpowering them.
- 1 yellow onion, diced: Provides a sweet base layer and depth of flavor when softened.
- 1 tablespoon garam masala: This essential Indian spice blend brings warmth and complexity to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds rich color.
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced: Delivers a pungent kick that balances the sweetness of the onions.
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated/minced: Adds a zesty brightness and helps enliven the dish.
- 1 28-ounce can kitchen ready tomatoes: The tomato base creates the sauce’s body and acidity.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and ties the ingredients together.
- ½ cup plain yogurt, full fat works best: Stirred in at the end for creaminess and subtle tanginess.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro: A fresh herbal garnish that adds vibrant color and aroma.
- 2 29-ounce cans chickpeas: The hearty protein that makes this dish wonderfully filling and nutritious.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Spices
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and pouring in the oil. As it warms, add the diced yellow onion and gently cook for 3 to 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step builds the flavorful foundation of the dish. To the softened onions, add the garam masala, tomato paste, minced garlic, and fresh grated ginger. Stir together and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to deepen in flavor.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Pour in the kitchen ready tomatoes straight from the can along with the kosher salt, mixing everything thoroughly in the skillet. This combination begins to transform into the rich sauce that defines tikka masala. Once combined well, remove the mixture from the heat, giving it a moment to cool before adding to your slow cooker.
Step 3: Combine Chickpeas and Sauce in Slow Cooker
Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then add them directly to the slow cooker. Pour the tomato and spice mixture over the chickpeas and gently stir to incorporate all the flavors evenly. This step sets the stage for slow cooking, where the chickpeas will absorb the spices and become tender and delicious.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and let the magic happen. Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or on low for about 5 hours. This slow simmering melds the ingredients beautifully, producing a soulful curry packed with bold and harmonious flavors. Near the end, stir in the full-fat plain yogurt and chopped cilantro to add that signature creaminess and fresh herbaceous touch.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Slow Cooker Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe even further, sprinkle extra chopped cilantro just before serving. A drizzle of yogurt or a sprinkle of garam masala on top can add a lovely contrast. These simple garnishes bring brightness and a touch of elegance to your bowl, making the dish as visually inviting as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This chickpea tikka masala pairs exceptionally well with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread that’s perfect for scooping up every last bit of the rich sauce. For a veggie boost, try it alongside steamed greens like spinach or roasted cauliflower to round out your meal with some extra nutrients and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get a little creative? Serve your tikka masala over a bed of warm quinoa or bulgur for a unique twist. You can also turn it into a hearty wrap with some fresh lettuce, or layer it with cucumber raita in a bowl for an Indian-inspired grain bowl that’s sure to impress. The versatility of this recipe means you can make it your own every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Because the flavors tend to deepen after resting, leftovers often taste even better the next day, making it an excellent option for planning ahead.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavors anytime. Portion the tikka masala into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chickpea tikka masala gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling of the yogurt. Stir frequently and add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use canned chickpeas or should I cook them from scratch?
Canned chickpeas are perfectly fine and a great time saver in this Slow Cooker Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium and improve the overall taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
The recipe as written includes yogurt, which is not vegan. However, you can easily swap in a plant-based yogurt alternative to keep it vegan-friendly without sacrificing creaminess or flavor.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can simmer the sauce and chickpeas on the stovetop over low heat for about 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens.
How spicy is this chickpea tikka masala?
This Slow Cooker Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe is mildly spiced and can be adjusted according to your taste. If you like more heat, adding a pinch of red chili powder or fresh chilies will give it a nice kick.
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, but be sure to soak dried chickpeas overnight and cook them thoroughly before adding to the slow cooker. Using canned chickpeas is more convenient and ensures a creamy texture without extra prep.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like coming home to the rich, fragrant comfort of this Slow Cooker Chickpea Tikka Masala Recipe. It’s simple to make, endlessly satisfying, and a beautiful showcase of how humble ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to bring a taste of Indian cuisine into your everyday meals.
