ULTIMATE SLOW COOKER BUTTER CHICKEN

I still remember the first time I tasted Indian Butter Chicken. It was at a small restaurant, and the rich, creamy sauce with tender chicken was an absolute revelation. I knew I had to recreate that magic at home, and after many tries, I’ve perfected the Best Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe that delivers authentic flavor with minimal effort. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets so you can make the most incredible, flavorful Indian Butter Chicken right in your own kitchen!

The Magic of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Let’s face it: life is busy. We all crave delicious, comforting meals, but often lack the time to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where the slow cooker comes in. This recipe for Indian Butter Chicken is a game-changer. It allows you to create a restaurant-quality dish with very little hands-on time. The slow cooker gently coaxes out all the flavors, resulting in chicken that is unbelievably tender and a sauce that is deeply rich and aromatic.

Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just another slow cooker recipe; it’s a carefully crafted formula designed for maximum flavor and convenience. We’re talking about using high-quality spices, layering the flavors correctly, and employing a few key techniques to ensure the sauce is perfectly creamy and not at all watery. Think of it as your secret weapon for a delicious, stress-free weeknight dinner or even a special occasion meal. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such an impressive dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients we’ll be using. Don’t be intimidated by the list; most of these are pantry staples, and the rest are easily found at your local grocery store.

• Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe because they stay incredibly moist and tender in the slow cooker. You can also use chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them.
• Onion and Garlic: These are the foundation of our flavor base. Use yellow or white onion. Fresh garlic is a must!
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a warm, spicy note that complements the other flavors perfectly.
• Tomato Paste and Diced Tomatoes: These provide the base for the sauce. Tomato paste adds a concentrated tomato flavor, while diced tomatoes add texture.
• Spices: This is where the magic happens! We’ll be using a blend of garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder (or cayenne pepper for extra heat), and paprika.
• Butter: Of course! This is Butter Chicken, after all. It adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. You can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the sauce.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps for perfectly executed slow cooker Butter Chicken.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. The kitchen should smell amazing at this point!
3. Add the Spices: Stir in the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and paprika. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This “blooming” of the spices releases their essential oils and enhances their flavor.
4. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed aromatics and spices to the slow cooker. Add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and the chicken pieces. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated.
5. Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be very tender and easily shreddable with a fork.
6. Shred the Chicken (Optional): If desired, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. This will create a more saucy and flavorful dish.
7. Add the Cream and Lemon Juice: Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream (optional), and a sprinkle of chili flakes (optional). Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or both!

Success Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Want to make sure your slow cooker Butter Chicken is a home run? Here are a few tips that will guarantee delicious results every time.

• Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the onion, garlic, ginger, and spices before adding them to the slow cooker is crucial for developing the full flavor of the dish. This step may seem like extra work, but it makes a huge difference in the final result.
• Use High-Quality Spices: Fresh, high-quality spices are essential for achieving authentic Indian flavor. If your spices have been sitting in your pantry for a while, it’s time to replace them.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: While chicken thighs are more forgiving than chicken breasts, it’s still possible to overcook them in the slow cooker. Check the chicken for doneness after 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. It should be very tender but not dry.
• Adjust the Spices to Your Taste: Indian Butter Chicken can be made as mild or as spicy as you like. Adjust the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper to your preference. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Make it Your Own: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker, such as bell peppers, peas, or spinach. You can also add a dollop of yogurt to the sauce for extra tanginess. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Serving Suggestions

Indian Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Basmati Rice: A classic pairing! The fluffy, aromatic rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Naan Bread: Warm, soft naan bread is ideal for scooping up the chicken and sauce.
• Raita: A cooling yogurt-based sauce that helps to balance the richness of the Butter Chicken.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted cauliflower, broccoli, or sweet potatoes are all great additions to your meal.

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and the heavy cream with coconut cream. The coconut cream will add a slightly sweet flavor to the sauce, which is delicious!
• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with chickpeas, paneer (Indian cheese), or a combination of vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, and peas.
• Spicier: Add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the spice blend. You can also add a chopped serrano pepper to the slow cooker for extra heat.
• Sweeter: Add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to the sauce to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the sweetness.

Other Delicious Slow Cooker Recipes

If you’re a fan of easy and flavorful slow cooker meals, here are a few other recipes you might enjoy. You should definitely give Honey Garlic Chicken a try for a sweet and savory option. And for another creamy chicken dish, SMOTHERED CHICKEN is another great choice. If you need a simple, hearty meal, try Chicken & Rice. Or, for a dish that combines chicken and vegetables, check out Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes. And lastly, If you are a huge fan of butter chicken, try this recipe Butter Chicken.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Indian Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply warm it up in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

Why This Recipe is Better Than Takeout

While takeout is convenient, there’s nothing quite like homemade Indian Butter Chicken. Here’s why this recipe is better than ordering from your local restaurant:

• You Control the Ingredients: You know exactly what’s going into your meal, so you can be sure it’s made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
• You Can Customize the Flavors: You can adjust the spices, sweetness, and heat to your liking.
• It’s More Economical: Making your own Indian Butter Chicken is much cheaper than ordering takeout.
• It’s a Fun and Rewarding Experience: Cooking at home is a great way to relax and unwind. Plus, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment when you create a delicious meal from scratch.

A Note on Spice Levels

Indian Butter Chicken is traditionally a mild dish, but you can easily adjust the spice level to your preference. If you like a little heat, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the spice blend. You can also add a chopped serrano pepper to the slow cooker. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether.

Recipe Card: Best Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken

Yields: 6-8 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or cayenne pepper, to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Optional: Swirl of cream and chili flakes, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and paprika. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and chicken pieces. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until chicken is tender.
5. Shred chicken with two forks, if desired.
6. Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream (optional), and chili flakes (optional). Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Conclusion: Your Culinary Adventure Awaits

So, are you ready to embark on this culinary adventure? I promise you, this slow cooker Butter Chicken recipe is a winner. It’s easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate – gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness you’re about to create! Enjoy!

ULTIMATE SLOW COOKER BUTTER CHICKEN

Amelia

Experience the rich and creamy flavors of Indian Butter Chicken made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This recipe combines tender chicken with a luscious, aromatic sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Servings 6

Calories 450 kcal

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Optional: Swirl of cream for garnish
• Optional: Chili flakes for garnish

• Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.

• In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

• Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

• Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.

• Stir in the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and paprika. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.

• Transfer the sautéed aromatics and spices to the slow cooker.

• Add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and the chicken pieces. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated.

• Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be very tender.

• If desired, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks.

• Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

• Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.

• Garnish with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream (optional), and a sprinkle of chili flakes (optional). Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or both!

For best results, sauté the aromatics and spices before adding them to the slow cooker to develop maximum flavor. Use high-quality, fresh spices for an authentic taste. Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice preference. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage. Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream for a dairy-free option.