Hey there! If you’re looking for a deliciously rich and creamy dish that practically cooks itself, then you’re in the right place! Today, I want to share one of my absolute favorites: Slow Cooker Butter Chicken! It’s a warm hug in a bowl, and the best part is that it’s so easy to create! Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker, and let it do all the heavy lifting. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat, and your kitchen is going to smell phenomenal!
Nutritional Benefits of Butter Chicken
Now, let’s talk about why you’ll love this dish besides its amazing flavor. Butter chicken is usually made with chicken breast, which is a lean source of protein. That means it helps keep you full without the heavy calories. Plus, the spices like turmeric and ginger carry anti-inflammatory properties that can be great for your health. The creaminess comes from the addition of butter and cream, so if you’re looking to sneak in some healthy fats, you’ll find they can be beneficial in moderation.
Adaptable Variations to Try
- Lighten it Up: You can swap the cream for coconut milk or Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter version. It still retains creaminess, but gives a different flavor twist!
- For a Vegetarian Option: You can easily replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a hearty plant-based dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time!
- Extra Spice Lovers: If you enjoy some heat, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if you prefer)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro for garnish (optional)
Serves 6–8 people
- Standard portions with rice or naan → 6 servings
- Slightly smaller portions → up to 8 servings
Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. You can cut them into bite-size pieces if you want, but they can also cook whole.
- Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger on top of the chicken.
- Next up, pour in the tomato sauce and add all the spices: garam masala, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to mix it together.
- Put the lid on and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours—just until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
- Once it’s done, stir in the butter and cream (or coconut milk) until it melts and combines into a creamy sauce.
- Serve hot over rice or with naan, and optionally sprinkle with fresh cilantro on top!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Want to make clean-up easy? Use a slow cooker liner to minimize mess.
- Serve leftovers in an airtight container—this dish stays delicious in the fridge for up to 4 days!
- If you like a thicker sauce, consider cooking it uncovered for the last 30 minutes to let some moisture evaporate.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this buttery goodness:
- A slow cooker (4 to 6 quarts works best)
- A cutting board and knife for prepping the ingredients
- A measuring cup and spoons for accuracy
- A spatula or spoon for mixing
- A serving spoon for dishing it out
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes! You can definitely use frozen chicken; just make sure to increase the cooking time by an hour or so.
- What can I serve with butter chicken? It goes really well with steamed rice, naan bread, or even a simple green salad!
- Is there a way to make this dairy-free? Absolutely! Just use coconut milk instead of cream, and skip the butter or use a dairy-free substitute.
- Can I make this in an Instant Pot? Yes! You can use the sauté function for onions and garlic, then switch to pressure cooking mode for about 15 minutes. Just follow the same ratio of ingredients.
- How can I adjust the spice level? Start with less garam masala and cumin, and taste the sauce before serving, adjusting as needed.
Now it’s your turn! I hope you give this recipe a try and experience the comforting vibes of Butter Chicken right at home. Let me know how it turns out, and feel free to share your pictures with me on Pinterest. I can’t wait to see your delicious creations!
