Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is the epitome of comfort food with a rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and a delicious blend of warm spices. This popular Indian-inspired dish is known for its bold flavors, and the best part is that it’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with the rich, aromatic spices and allows the sauce to thicken to perfection, making each bite an irresistible combination of savory, sweet, and creamy.

This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a fantastic option for busy days when you want a homemade, hearty meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for dinner with rice, naan, or a side of vegetables, it’s sure to satisfy your craving for something flavorful and comforting. In this recipe guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and suggestions for making this dish even more customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of butter, cream, and aromatic spices like garam masala, turmeric, and cumin creates a rich and smooth sauce that perfectly coats the tender chicken. The slow cooking method deepens the flavors and results in a mouthwatering dish.
• Minimal Prep Time: With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can toss the ingredients in, set it, and forget it. It’s perfect for those who don’t have time to stand over the stove, but still want a delicious homemade meal.
• Tender, Juicy Chicken: The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender and juicy, absorbing the flavors of the sauce while staying moist and flavorful.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. You can enjoy it throughout the week or even freeze leftovers for a later date.
• Customizable for Any Taste: You can adjust the spice level, creaminess, and flavor profile to suit your personal preference, making this dish versatile for everyone at the table.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 6 hours
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5-6 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 22-25g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 5-6g

Ingredients

For the Slow Cooker Butter Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or ghee)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Cooked basmati rice or naan bread
• Extra cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Seasonings

Start by preparing your chicken. If using chicken breasts, cut them into bite-sized pieces. If using chicken thighs, they can be left whole or cut into smaller pieces as well. Season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or ghee) over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and grated ginger to the pan, and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Next, stir in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Allow the spices to toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This step helps to bring out the full depth of flavor from the spices.

2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed onion, garlic, and spice mixture into your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and stir to combine.

Place the seasoned chicken pieces into the slow cooker, making sure they are evenly distributed and coated with the tomato and spice mixture.

3. Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook in its juices and absorb all the flavors of the spices and tomato mixture. The chicken will become incredibly tender and flavorful.

Make sure to stir the mixture once or twice throughout the cooking process, though it’s not necessary if you’re in a rush. The slow cooker does most of the work for you.

4. Finish the Sauce

Once the chicken has cooked through and is very tender, it’s time to add the finishing touches to the dish. Stir in the heavy cream and butter, allowing the butter to melt and the cream to fully incorporate into the sauce. This will create a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly complements the chicken.

Let the butter chicken simmer on the “keep warm” setting (if your slow cooker has one) for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as desired. If you want a slightly thicker sauce, you can increase the cooking time with the lid off for 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce.

5. Serve the Butter Chicken

Serve your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair it with a bowl of fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. The creamy, aromatic butter chicken will be a hit at the dinner table.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

• Use Bone-In Chicken for More Flavor: If you prefer, you can use bone-in chicken thighs for even more flavor. Be sure to remove the bones before serving. Bone-in cuts tend to release more flavor as they cook, which can add richness to the sauce.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili powder or omit the smoked paprika. For a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add a chopped green chili to the slow cooker.
• Substitute for Heavy Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. This will also add a subtle sweetness to the dish.
• Ghee Instead of Butter: For a more authentic flavor, substitute ghee (clarified butter) for regular unsalted butter. Ghee has a slightly nutty flavor and can withstand higher temperatures without burning, making it ideal for cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Since chicken thighs are naturally more forgiving when it comes to cooking, they stay moist even if you leave them in the slow cooker for a little longer than the recipe suggests. However, if using chicken breasts, be cautious not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily.

Variations of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

• Vegetarian Butter Tofu: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with cubed tofu. You can either pan-fry the tofu until crispy before adding it to the slow cooker or simply add it directly for a softer texture.
• Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala: If you love chicken tikka masala, you can use a similar method and ingredients, but swap out the butter for yogurt and add some garam masala, ground almonds, and a pinch of saffron for extra depth of flavor.
• Spicy Butter Chicken: For a spicier variation, add extra green chilies or use hotter chili powders. You could also mix in a spoonful of chili paste to elevate the heat level while still maintaining the creaminess of the sauce.
• Butter Chicken with Vegetables: You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots to the slow cooker for added texture and nutrients. Just be sure to add them in the last hour of cooking so they don’t overcook.

Storage and Shelf Life

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is ideal for storing and enjoying as leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well and can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Pair your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken with a variety of complementary sides to make the meal even more satisfying:

• Basmati Rice: The fluffy, aromatic texture of basmati rice is the perfect match for butter chicken. It soaks up the creamy sauce and balances the rich flavors of the dish.
• Naan Bread: Soft, pillowy naan bread is perfect for dipping into the butter chicken sauce. Whether you opt for plain naan or garlic naan, it will enhance the experience.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling cucumber raita made with yogurt, cucumber, and mint is an excellent side dish to counterbalance the spiciness of the butter chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted cauliflower, broccoli, or bell peppers add a healthy, flavorful contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the creamy butter chicken. Consider using arugula or mixed greens with a tangy dressing to add brightness.
• Mango Chutney: The sweetness of mango chutney pairs beautifully with the creamy, savory butter chicken. It adds a layer of flavor and a touch of sweetness to each bite.

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Conclusion

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make meal that everyone will love. The slow-cooked chicken absorbs all the vibrant spices and creamy butter sauce, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, this recipe will not disappoint. With minimal effort and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you can enjoy the rich flavors of butter chicken in no time. Enjoy the creamy, spiced goodness of this dish and savor each bite!