Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Tender chicken simmers in a spiced tomato and cream-based sauce, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully over time. Perfect for busy days, this comforting and aromatic meal is ideal served over rice or with warm naan bread.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighsoniongarlicgingergaramm masalacuminpaprikaturmericcayenne pepper (optional)tomato pastecrushed tomatoeschicken brothheavy cream or coconut milkbutterfresh cilantro for garnishsalt and pepper

directions

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

In a skillet, melt butter and sauté chopped onions until soft and translucent.

Add garlic, ginger, and spices (garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne) and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker.

Add chicken, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender.

Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk and let cook for another 10–15 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)Finishing time: 15 minutesTotal time: 6.5–7.5 hours

Variations

Add frozen peas or spinach in the last 30 minutes for extra color and nutrition.

Use Greek yogurt instead of cream for a lighter version.

Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Add a cinnamon stick during cooking for a subtle warm undertone.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat or microwave until heated through.Can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs are often more flavorful and stay juicier during slow cooking.

Is this dish very spicy?

It’s mildly spiced, but you can increase or reduce the cayenne to adjust the heat.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut milk instead of cream and plant-based butter.

Do I need to sauté the onions and spices first?

It enhances the flavor, but you can skip it for an even quicker prep.

What should I serve with butter chicken?

It’s perfect with basmati rice, naan, or steamed vegetables.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, make sure your slow cooker has enough room, and adjust cook time as needed.

Does butter chicken taste better the next day?

Yes, the flavors deepen and develop, making leftovers even more delicious.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is the perfect blend of convenience and bold flavor. With tender chicken and a rich, creamy sauce infused with warm spices, it’s a satisfying and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please. Add it to your slow cooker rotation for an effortless meal that feels special every time.

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