Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, high-protein meal that’s packed with flavour, this Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is the perfect choice. Using simple, affordable ingredients, you can enjoy a rich, creamy, and comforting curry for just £3.75 when shopping from the Waitrose Essential range.

This recipe is easy to prepare, requires minimal effort, and is slow-cooked to perfection, making it ideal for busy days. Simply throw everything into the slow cooker and let the magic happen.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

• Low-cost & budget-friendly – Delicious homemade curry for less than £2 per serving
• Easy to make – Just prep, mix, and let the slow cooker do the work
• High protein – A satisfying meal with 31g of protein per serving
• Packed with flavour – A delicious blend of spices for an authentic taste

Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 300g (10.5 oz) chicken breast, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon sugar or erythritol
• ½ tablespoon tomato purée
• 200g (7 oz) chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chicken tikka masala paste
• Dash of water
• 3 tablespoons Skyr or low-fat yoghurt

Total Cost: £3.75 (Waitrose Essential range)

Method

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Add all the ingredients except for the yoghurt into the slow cooker. Stir well to coat the chicken in the spices and ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 2: Slow Cook

Set your slow cooker to:

• Low: 4-5 hours
• High: 3 hours

Step 3: Add the Yoghurt

20 minutes before serving, stir in the Skyr or low-fat yoghurt to add creaminess and balance the spices.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your Chicken Tikka Masala with rice or naan bread, and garnish with fresh coriander if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• 360 kcal
• 31g protein
• 19g carbs
• 8g fat

(Rice or naan not included in macros)

Serving Suggestions

This curry is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even better.

• Fluffy Basmati Rice – A classic, easy side that absorbs all the delicious sauce
• Warm Naan Bread – Perfect for scooping up every last bite
• Side Salad – A fresh cucumber and tomato salad adds a light contrast

Money-Saving & Customisation Tips

• Use chicken thighs instead of breast – Slightly cheaper and extra tender when slow-cooked
• Swap Skyr for Greek yoghurt – Any low-fat yoghurt will work well
• Buy spices in bulk – Essential spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander last a long time and can be used in multiple recipes
• Make it vegetarian – Swap the chicken for chickpeas or lentils for a plant-based option

Let me know if you try this recipe – I’d love to hear your thoughts.