Why You’ll Love This
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish inspired by classic Indian cuisine. Tender chicken simmers slowly in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices, garlic, and butter. The slow cooker makes this dish incredibly easy—just add the ingredients and let the flavors develop into a velvety, restaurant-quality meal that pairs perfectly with rice or naan.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
● 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
● 1 teaspoon salt
● ½ teaspoon black pepper
● 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Sauce
● 2 tablespoons butter
● 1 small onion, finely chopped
● 4 cloves garlic, minced
● 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
● 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
● 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
● 2 tablespoons tomato paste
● 1 tablespoon garam masala
● 1 teaspoon curry powder
● 1 teaspoon ground cumin
● 1 teaspoon chili powder or paprika (adjust to taste)
● 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)
● ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
For Garnish
● 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
● Cooked basmati rice or naan for serving
Preparation Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika. -
Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended)
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. -
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, garam masala, curry powder, cumin, chili powder, sugar (if using), and salt. -
Add the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken into the sauce and stir gently to coat. -
Slow Cook the Dish
Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender. -
Add Cream
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking. -
Adjust the Seasoning
Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed. -
Serve
Spoon the butter chicken over warm basmati rice or serve with naan. -
Garnish
Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Slow cooker
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Skillet (optional for sautéing)
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Knife and cutting board
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Wooden spoon
Tips
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Use chicken thighs: They stay juicier and more flavorful during slow cooking.
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Toast spices briefly: Cooking spices with the onions enhances their flavor.
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Make it milder: Reduce chili powder for less heat.
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Add richness: A tablespoon of butter stirred in at the end enhances the sauce.
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Use coconut milk: This creates a dairy-free version with a slightly sweeter taste.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with basmati rice or jasmine rice.
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Pair with warm naan or flatbread.
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Add a side of cucumber raita or yogurt sauce.
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Serve with steamed vegetables or lentil dishes.
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze the sauce and chicken for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes. Chicken breasts work well but may be slightly less tender than thighs.
2. Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes. Add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chopped chili peppers.
3. Do I have to sauté the onions first?
No, but sautéing them adds extra depth and flavor to the sauce.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines tender chicken with a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. With minimal preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe brings the taste of a classic Indian dish right into your home kitchen.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 420 kcal
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Protein: 35 g
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Carbohydrates: 10 g
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Fat: 27 g
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Fiber: 2 g
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Sodium: 520 mg
Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredients used. 🍛✨
