Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Introduction

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that brings the bold, aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine right into your home. The tender chicken is cooked to perfection in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce, spiced with garam masala, turmeric, and other fragrant spices that envelop the chicken in a layer of warmth and depth. The beauty of using a slow cooker is how it allows the spices to infuse the chicken, creating a melt-in-your-mouth dish that’s full of flavor with minimal effort.

The first time I made Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, I was amazed at how effortlessly it came together. All the ingredients—spices, chicken, tomatoes, and cream—went into the slow cooker, and hours later, I was greeted with a dish that smelled so intoxicatingly good. The anticipation built up as the kitchen filled with the comforting scent of spices and simmering sauce. When it was finally ready, I couldn’t wait to take my first bite, and it did not disappoint. The chicken was perfectly tender, and the sauce had just the right balance of creamy richness and spicy kick.

What I love most about Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is how versatile and easy it is. It’s a fantastic option for busy nights when you need a meal that’s low-maintenance but still feels special. The slow cooker does all the work, and the result is an elegant, comforting dish that pairs perfectly with naan, rice, or even roasted vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a dinner party, this dish will impress and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Perfect for:

• Busy weeknights
• Family dinners
• Meal prep
• Special occasions
• Spicy food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Here’s why Slow Cooker Butter Chicken will become your go-to recipe:

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The smooth, buttery sauce is packed with flavor, combining tomatoes, cream, and a blend of aromatic spices.
• Tender Chicken: Slow cooking ensures the chicken is melt-in-your-mouth tender, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce.
• Minimal Effort: Simply toss the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. It’s the ultimate convenience meal.
• Customizable Spice Level: You can adjust the heat by modifying the amount of chili or cayenne pepper, making it perfect for everyone’s taste buds.
• Perfectly Paired with Naan or Rice: This dish is a great accompaniment to naan or rice, soaking up all the delicious sauce.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 hours (on low) or 3 hours (on high)
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 34g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 28g

Ingredients

For this easy and flavorful Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for slow cooking because they stay juicy and tender, making them perfect for this recipe.
• Garam Masala: This aromatic blend of spices, including cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, is the heart of butter chicken’s signature flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a rich, silky texture to the sauce, creating the classic creaminess you expect in butter chicken.
• Greek Yogurt: Adds a slight tang to balance the richness of the cream, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Butter: True to its name, butter chicken is made rich with butter, adding a luxurious feel to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken and Sauce:

1. Season the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and half of the garam masala. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Spices: Stir in the remaining garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors of the spices.
4. Combine with Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the spices and aromatics. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Slow Cook the Chicken:

5. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour the tomato and spice mixture into the slow cooker. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
6. Cook on Low or High: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.

Finish the Sauce:

7. Add the Dairy: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Greek yogurt. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on low to heat through.
8. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices if needed. You can also add more cream for extra richness.
9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is best served with the following accompaniments:

• With Naan Bread: Serve the butter chicken with warm, soft naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Basmati Rice: The fragrant basmati rice pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken, making for a complete meal.
• Over Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve the butter chicken over cauliflower rice.
• With Raita: Cool and creamy raita on the side will complement the heat and spice of the butter chicken.
• With Pappadam: Serve with crispy pappadam (thin Indian crackers) for a crunchy contrast to the soft chicken and sauce.

Additional Tips for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Slow Cooker Butter Chicken:

• Use Chicken Thighs: While chicken breasts can be used, chicken thighs have more fat, which helps keep them tender and juicy during slow cooking.
• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also skip the cayenne if you’re sensitive to heat.
• Use Full-Fat Cream: For the richest, most decadent sauce, use full-fat heavy cream. Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, but it won’t be as creamy.
• Don’t Skip the Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds a tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the cream and butter, so don’t skip it.
• Add Vegetables: To make the dish even heartier, add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the slow cooker along with the chicken.

Recipe Variations for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Here are 10 ways you can customize Slow Cooker Butter Chicken:

• Add Vegetables: Add bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped green chilies for more heat.
• Use Ground Chicken: Swap the chicken thighs for ground chicken for a quicker version of butter chicken.
• Coconut Butter Chicken: Replace the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free, coconut-infused version.
• Paneer Butter Chicken: Replace the chicken with cubed paneer (Indian cheese) for a vegetarian take on the dish.
• Add Almonds: Stir in chopped almonds for a little crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Add Garlic Naan: Serve with garlic naan instead of plain naan for an extra layer of flavor.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
• Make It Sweet: Add a tablespoon of honey for a slightly sweeter version of butter chicken.
• Curry Powder Butter Chicken: Use curry powder in place of garam masala for a different flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Let the butter chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and heat on the stove or in the microwave.
• Storage: Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Special Equipment for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken easier:

• Slow Cooker: A 4-6 quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, allowing plenty of space for the chicken and sauce.
• Skillet: You’ll need a large skillet to sauté the aromatics and spices before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is necessary for chopping the chicken, onions, garlic, and ginger.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife will make chopping the ingredients quicker and safer.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for spices and liquids.

FAQ Section for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   Yes, but chicken breasts may not be as tender as thighs, so be sure to check the chicken for doneness to avoid overcooking.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Yes, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free version.
3. Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook the butter chicken on high for about 3 hours, but for the best results, cooking on low for 6 hours is recommended.
4. Can I use store-bought garam masala?
   Yes, store-bought garam masala is a convenient option, but if you have the ingredients, homemade garam masala will add even more flavor.
5. What can I serve with Slow Cooker Butter Chicken?
   Serve with naan bread, basmati rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

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Conclusion

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken and luscious tomato-based sauce, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a deeply satisfying meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this butter chicken is guaranteed to impress.

Give it a try for your next meal, and enjoy the delicious comfort of homemade Indian cuisine! Be sure to tag me on Instagram with your version—I’d love to see how it turns out. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share how you made it your own. Happy cooking!