This Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavors! Tender chicken simmers in a rich sauce made of tomatoes, butter, and spices. Yum!
It’s perfect for busy days—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I love serving it over rice, and my family can’t get enough of it! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite for this recipe since they stay juicy. You can also use breasts if you prefer. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, try chickpeas or tofu instead!
Cauliflower: This is an optional ingredient that adds extra nutrition. If cauliflower isn’t your thing, you can skip it or replace it with other veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
Cream: For a rich texture, I often use heavy cream. If you want a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, full-fat coconut milk is a wonderful alternative. It still gives that creamy flavor without dairy.
Spices: Garam masala is key for the authentic flavor. If you can’t find it, a mixture of cumin, coriander, and a hint of cinnamon can work too. Don’t hesitate to adjust the chili powder based on your spice tolerance!
What’s the Best Way to Make Sure My Now Cooker Butter Chicken is Perfect?
The key to a well-cooked butter chicken is not just the ingredients but also the cooking times. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t open the slow cooker too often—this lets heat out and can affect cooking time. Only check it when necessary!
- About 30 minutes before serving, stirring in the cream or coconut milk enriches the sauce. This step gives it that beautiful, creamy consistency.
Don’t forget to taste your sauce before serving. You can always tweak the spices or salt to suit your taste! Enjoy your cooking journey!
Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 1 small head of cauliflower, cut into florets (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
For Seasoning:
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Naan bread or basmati rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy butter chicken recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and cooks in the slow cooker for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for a set-it-and-forget-it meal, allowing you to enjoy your day while dinner cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Cauliflower:
Start by placing the chopped chicken and cauliflower florets (if you’re using them) in your slow cooker. This dish can be customized based on your preferences with or without the veggies!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, minced ginger, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Mix them well to create a flavorful sauce.
3. Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken:
Now, pour this delicious sauce mixture over the chicken and cauliflower in the slow cooker. Make sure everything is well coated!
4. Add the Butter:
Add the butter in small chunks on top of the mixture. This will melt and add a rich, creamy texture to the dish as it cooks.
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through by the end of the cooking time.
6. Stir in the Cream:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for that rich, creamy finish. This step really elevates the flavors!
7. Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your butter chicken and adjust the seasoning if necessary. It’s all about personal preference!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your butter chicken with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve it hot alongside warm naan bread or steamed basmati rice for a truly satisfying meal!
Enjoy your delicious, creamy, and aromatic Indian butter chicken made effortlessly in the slow cooker! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. Just be sure to keep an eye on cooking time, as they may cook faster than thighs.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Ensure that they’re added at the correct time so they absorb the flavors of the sauce well!
How Do I Store Leftover Butter Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce as it thickens when chilled.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition. Just make sure they cook well in the slow cooker along with the chicken!
