Save A fusion of Indian and Mexican favorites: tender slow-cooked chicken tikka masala wrapped in soft taco shells, finished with a sticky, flavorful glaze and fresh toppings.
The first time I tried making these tacos for a weekend dinner party, everyone was amazed by how the familiar comfort of tikka masala became even more irresistible wrapped in warm tortillas and finished with a sweet, sticky glaze.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Marinade: 700 g (1.5 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 150 g (2/3 cup) plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp ginger, freshly grated, 1 tbsp garlic, minced, 1.5 tsp ground cumin, 1.5 tsp ground coriander, 1.5 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground turmeric, 1.5 tsp salt
- Masala Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 medium onion, finely diced, 2 tsp ginger, grated, 2 tsp garlic, minced, 2 tsp ground cumin, 2 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 2 tbsp honey, salt and black pepper, to taste
- Sticky Glaze: 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark brown sugar, 2 tbsp masala sauce (from above)
- For Serving: 6 small flour tortillas or corn tortillas, 1 red onion, thinly sliced, fresh cilantro leaves, 1 small cucumber, diced, lime wedges
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine all chicken & marinade ingredients. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight).
- Prepare Masala Sauce Base:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Spice Up Sauce:
- Stir in cumin, garam masala, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Tomatoes:
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and honey. Season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
- Slow Cook Chicken:
- Add marinated chicken and prepared masala sauce to the slow cooker. Stir to coat chicken evenly. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred & Finish Sauce:
- Remove chicken and shred with two forks. Stir heavy cream into the sauce in the slow cooker, then return shredded chicken and mix well.
- Make Sticky Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and 2 tbsp of the masala sauce. Simmer over medium heat until thickened and sticky, 2–3 minutes.
- Toss & Finish Filling:
- Drizzle the sticky glaze over the shredded chicken and toss to coat.
- Serve:
- Warm tortillas according to package instructions. Fill each with sticky chicken tikka masala, then top with sliced onion, cucumber, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Save Sharing these tacos with my family has become a favorite tradition for when we want something delicious and a little different on taco night.
Required Tools
Knife & cutting board, mixing bowls, skillet, slow cooker, small saucepan, forks (for shredding chicken)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (yogurt, cream, butter). Contains gluten (if using flour tortillas). Contains soy (in glaze). May contain allergens in store-bought tortillas or sauces. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information (per taco)
Calories: 340, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 20 g
Save Enjoy these sticky chicken tikka masala tacos fresh for the best texture and flavor. Leftovers make a delicious lunch the next day.
Cooking Guide
- → How is the chicken prepared for maximum tenderness?
The chicken thighs are marinated in yogurt and spices, then slow-cooked for several hours until tender and easy to shred.
- → What creates the sticky glaze on the chicken?
A combination of honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and a portion of the masala sauce is simmered until thickened to coat the chicken with a sticky finish.
- → Can I use alternative tortillas for dietary preferences?
Yes, both flour and corn tortillas can be used; gluten-free options also work well to accommodate preferences.
- → What fresh toppings enhance these tacos?
Sliced red onions, diced cucumber, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges add crispness and bright flavors to balance the richness.
- → How can the heat level be adjusted?
Add chopped green chilies or adjust the chili powder amount in the masala sauce to increase the spice to desired taste.