Description
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken in a velvety spiced tomato sauce. This easy, set-it-and-forget-it recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With bold flavors, customizable spice levels, and a luxurious texture, this butter chicken pairs beautifully with naan or basmati rice for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and half the garam masala.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onions for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
- Add Spices: Stir in remaining garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute.
- Prepare the Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Slow Cook: Transfer sauce and seasoned chicken to the slow cooker. Stir to coat the chicken. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Finish with Dairy: Stir in heavy cream and Greek yogurt. Cook for another 10-15 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with naan or rice.
Notes
- Make it spicier: Add extra cayenne or red chili flakes.
- Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or paneer.
- Thicker sauce: Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes before serving or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indian
