Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

If you have ever craved the rich, luxurious flavors of Indian cuisine without having to spend hours in the kitchen, this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Tender chicken thighs slowly simmer in a spiced tomato and coconut milk sauce, enriched with creamy yogurt and butter to create a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply want a fuss-free weeknight meal packed with flavor, this recipe delivers every time with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is carefully selected to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From aromatic spices to creamy dairy, every element plays a crucial role in transforming simple ingredients into a truly memorable meal.

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: The perfect choice for juicy, tender meat that stays moist during slow cooking.
• 1 large onion (finely chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor as it cooks down.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a warm, aromatic foundation essential to Indian dishes.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced): Freshly grated ginger brings a bright, zesty punch to the sauce.
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: The tomato base gives a luscious, slightly tangy backdrop for the spices.
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk: Adds creamy richness and a hint of sweetness to balance the spices.
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Incorporates creaminess and tenderness while brightening the sauce.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce silky smooth and indulgent.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Swirled in at the end, it creates that unmistakable buttery finish.
• 3 tablespoons garam masala: A fragrant spice blend essential for authentic Indian flavor.
• 1 tablespoon curry powder: Provides warmth and complexity to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a slightly nutty aroma.
• 1 tablespoon paprika: For vibrant color and a mild smoky undertone.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric: Brings a gorgeous golden hue and subtle bitterness.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives gentle heat without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and sharpness.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: A warming spice that balances the savory with sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Perfect if you want a touch of extra heat.
• Fresh cilantro (chopped): Used as a topping for a fresh, herbal finish.
• Cooked basmati rice: Ideal for soaking up the rich, saucy goodness.
• Naan bread: The perfect vehicle for dipping into the luscious butter chicken sauce.

How to Make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and tender bites. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic and ginger to release their full flavors when cooked slowly.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In a large 6-quart slow cooker, layer the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Pour in the tomato sauce, coconut milk, Greek yogurt, and heavy cream. Stir in your fragrant spices—from garam masala to cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous—to create a beautifully balanced sauce.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Add your bite-sized chicken pieces to the slow cooker, then gently stir everything together. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the sauce and spices to absorb all the incredible flavors during cooking.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or speed things up by cooking on high for 3 to 4 hours. The long, gentle cooking process renders the meat tender and allows the sauce to thicken and develop robust layers of flavor.

Step 5: Finish with Butter

About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the pieces of unsalted butter and let it melt completely into the sauce. This final touch turns the dish silky and rich, bringing everything together in the classic butter chicken way.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your slow cooker butter chicken hot, spooned generously over fluffy basmati rice and garnished with fresh cilantro. Don’t forget a side of warm naan bread to scoop up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro chopped over the top adds a delightful burst of color and a hint of freshness that perfectly complements the richness of the butter chicken sauce.

Side Dishes

Steaming basmati rice is the classic companion, its fragrant grains soaking up the luscious sauce beautifully. Soft, warm naan bread is another essential for scooping and savoring every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve your butter chicken in small copper bowls or over a bed of vibrant saffron rice. Sprinkle some toasted cashews or slivered almonds on top for added crunch and elegance. You can even pair it with roasted vegetables for extra color and nutrition on your plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The slow cooker butter chicken will keep well for up to 3 days, with the flavors often tasting even better the next day after sitting overnight.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion your butter chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to stir halfway through to heat evenly and preserve the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While thighs stay juicy and tender during long cooking, chicken breasts can also be used. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster. You might want to reduce the slow cooking time slightly when using breasts.

Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker?

There’s no need to brown the chicken for this recipe since slow cooking will tenderize the meat and develop flavors over time. This makes preparation quicker without sacrificing taste.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and Greek yogurt with coconut cream or other plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version. The coconut milk already adds richness, which helps maintain the creamy texture.

Is it okay to skip the butter?

The butter is a signature ingredient that gives this dish its distinctive richness and silky finish. While you can skip it if needed, adding it at the end truly elevates the sauce to that beloved “butter chicken” standard.

How spicy is this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe?

The recipe uses gentle spices and only a small amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper (which is optional) to keep the heat mild to moderate. You can adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference, making it perfect for any palate.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that make you want to invite everyone over for seconds, thirds, and maybe even more. It’s as much about the joy of making a comforting, flavorful meal with ease as it is about savoring every creamy, spiced bite. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple in your recipe repertoire, warming your kitchen and your heart with every spoonful.

Print