Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce. With minimal prep and slow cooking magic, this meal delivers authentic Indian flavors with ease. Serve it over rice or with naan for a comforting and delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy & Hands-Off – The slow cooker does all the work!
• Rich & Creamy – A luscious, velvety butter chicken sauce.
• Full of Flavor – Bold Indian spices with a perfect balance of heat and creaminess.
• Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels, make it dairy-free, or add veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Butter Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup butter (unsalted)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
• ½ cup plain yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)

For Serving:

• Cooked basmati rice
• Naan bread
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Extra cream or yogurt, for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken & Spices

• Place chicken chunks in the slow cooker.
• Add onion, garlic, ginger, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Stir everything to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce.

2. Slow Cook the Butter Chicken

• Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender.

3. Add Butter & Cream

• Stir in butter and heavy cream (or coconut milk).
• Let cook for another 10-15 minutes on LOW.

4. Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of extra cream.
• Serve over basmati rice or with warm naan.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: ~7 hours

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add extra chili powder or cayenne.
• Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut milk instead of cream and vegan butter.
• Extra Veggies – Add peas, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve with cauliflower rice instead of basmati.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful.

How do I make this milder?

Reduce chili powder and paprika, or add extra cream.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes! Simmer everything on low for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Can I use store-bought butter chicken sauce?

Yes, but homemade tastes much better!

What’s the best side dish for butter chicken?

Rice, naan, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream?

Yes! It adds creaminess with a tangy twist.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?

No, but you can sear it for extra depth of flavor.

How do I make it richer?

Add an extra 1 tbsp butter and ¼ cup cream.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger slow cooker.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes or add a cornstarch slurry.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—all with minimal effort! Perfect for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or a family feast, this easy slow cooker meal will quickly become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a homemade version of this Indian classic!

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