Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Rich and flavorful, Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a dish that can transform any dinner into a delightful occasion. If you’ve ever walked into your kitchen to the rich aroma of spices mingling and wafting through the air, you know just how wonderful it can feel. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a creamy, tomato-based sauce, soaking up all those delicious spices. It’s the kind of meal that brings families together, especially when everyone is busy and time is limited.

With just a handful of simple ingredients and the magic of your slow cooker, you can create this Indian classic without the fuss. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that balances richness with a gentle kick of spice. Whether served with fluffy rice or comforting naan, this dish guarantees smiles all around. Get ready to dive into the world of slow cooking—your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your family will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

One bite of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, and you’ll understand its popularity. This dish is rich in creamy flavors that fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. The scent of sautéed garlic and ginger brings warmth and comfort, making you feel right at home. Plus, the convenience of using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy families.

As the chicken simmers, the spices meld together, creating a perfect balance that pleases every palate. Whether you prefer mild or bold flavors, this recipe offers a delightful experience for everyone at the table. It’s a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and simply unforgettable.

What is Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken hails from Indian cuisine, where it has roots in Mughlai cooking. Traditionally, the dish features marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce. With a focus on aromatic spices, it delivers a depth of flavor that makes it truly special.

In modern cooking, slow cooker recipes are increasingly popular for their ease and ability to develop rich flavors without much hassle. So, if you’re short on time yet still want to impress, this dish is the way to go!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

To create your own Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 16 oz (450g) tomato sauce or passata
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar or honey
• 2 lb (900g) chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro for garnish

With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious dinner.

Preparing Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Combine Aromatics and Sauces

Start by adding garlic, ginger, tomato sauce, cumin, garam masala, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and sugar to your slow cooker. Make sure to mix everything well before you move on to the next step.

Coat the Chicken

Now, it’s time to place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Ensure that they are thoroughly coated with the luscious sauce mixture. This step is crucial, as it allows the chicken to absorb all those fantastic flavors while cooking.

Add the Butter

To add extra creaminess, scatter cubes of unsalted butter over the chicken. As the butter melts, it will enhance the richness of the sauce and lend a velvety texture.

Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it on HIGH for 1.5-2 hours or on LOW for 4-6 hours. The chicken will be perfectly done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. As it cooks, the flavors will deepen, leaving you with a dish that’s simply irresistible.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked, carefully remove it and place it on a cutting board to cool slightly. Stir in the heavy cream into the sauce, blending until it’s beautifully creamy and inviting.

Serve with Style

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the sauce. Now comes the fun part—serve your delectable butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan bread. For a lovely touch, garnish with fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro, adding a pop of color to your plate.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, pairing it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan is a no-brainer. The rice soaks up the rich sauce, while the naan is perfect for mopping up those flavorful drips.

You might also consider adding a side of cucumber raita. This cooling yogurt-based side offers a delightful contrast to the warm spices. For extra crunch, a fresh green salad adds a nice balance to the meal.

Tips for Success

To get the most out of your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, keep these tips in mind:

• Make sure to use skinless thighs for the best texture, as they stay moist during cooking.
• Don’t skip the spices; they are essential to developing the rich flavors we all love.
• Adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker model. Each appliance works a bit differently, so keep an eye on it for optimal results.

Variations

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to explore some variations:

• Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas to create a vegetarian version that’s just as delightful.
• For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream; it adds an exotic twist.
• Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint for garnishing—each will give a unique flavor profile to your dish.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, don’t worry! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave. A splash of water can help revive the sauce if it thickens too much.

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken also freezes well. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure the best taste and texture.

Pairing Ideas

To complement your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, consider pairing it with a light, aromatic white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. It enhances the flavors beautifully.

You can also serve alongside Indian-inspired vegetable dishes like saag paneer or aloo gobi, which add depth to your meal. Finally, matching with a refreshing mango lassi not only cools the palate but makes the meal feel special.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but be cautious; chicken breasts can dry out more easily. Adjust cooking time according to your preference.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe in a regular pot?
Absolutely! Just simmer it on the stovetop, adjusting cooking time as needed.

3. How can I make it spicier?
You can add more chili powder or opt for a spicier curry powder to kick up the heat.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare all your ingredients the night before and set it to cook in the morning.

5. What’s the best way to serve this dish?
Serve hot with rice or naan, and garnish with fresh herbs for an enticing presentation.

Rich in flavors and easy to prepare, Slow Cooker Butter Chicken invites comfort and warmth to your family dinner. With its perfectly spiced, creamy goodness, it pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or naan—making every bite a true feast. Indulge in this authentic taste that’s bound to impress; embrace the slow cooking magic for a meal everyone will adore!

More Easy Lunch & Dinner ideas Recipes:

• Cream Of Mushroom Chicken
• Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Potatoes
• Pioneer Woman Corned Beef Hash
• Breakfast Skillet

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Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

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Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a creamy, aromatic dish hailing from Indian cuisine. It’s easy to make, perfect for busy families, and pairs beautifully with rice or naan.

• Total Time: 45 minute
• Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 16 oz (450g) tomato sauce or passata
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar or honey
• 2 lb (900g) chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

• Combine garlic, ginger, tomato sauce, cumin, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and sugar in the slow cooker.
• Add chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated with the sauce.
• Top with cubed butter for added creaminess.
• Cover and cook on HIGH for 1.5-2 hours or LOW for 4-6 hours until chicken reaches 165°F.
• Remove chicken, stir in heavy cream, then return chicken to the sauce.
• Serve with rice or naan, garnished with fresh herbs.

Notes

Use skinless chicken thighs for best results.
Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker model.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Author: Martha
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4
• Sodium: 800
• Fat: 28
• Saturated Fat: 15
• Unsaturated Fat: 11
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 14
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 32
• Cholesterol: 150