This Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish loaded with tasty spices! Tender chicken simmers in a rich tomato sauce with butter, making it perfect served over rice.
Honestly, it’s a no-fuss recipe that fills the house with the best aroma. I love that you just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic—no stirring required!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are great for this dish as they remain juicy during slow cooking. You can use breasts, but they’ll be drier. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, try chickpeas instead!
Spices: Garam masala is the star here for its warm flavors. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts cumin, coriander, and cardamom for a substitute. Fresh spices give better flavor than old ones, so check your pantry.
Coconut Milk: For a dairy-free version, coconut milk adds richness. I find it gives a nice hint of sweetness. If you’d rather use dairy, heavy cream or half and half works wonderfully.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of flavor at the end. If you’re not a fan, you can simply leave it out or use parsley as a garnish.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right in My Slow Cooker?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker can be a breeze if you follow these steps for tenderness:
- Cut chicken into even chunks for uniform cooking.
- Layer the ingredients as suggested—onions and spices at the bottom, chicken on top for even flavor distribution.
- Set your cooker to LOW for the best results, letting it work its magic over the longer cooking time.
- Always check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- For the last 15 minutes, stir in cream or coconut milk for a smooth finish!
Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
For the Sauce:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 (14 oz/400 g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) plain yogurt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Spices:
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt, to taste
For the Creaminess:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or coconut milk
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll need to let it cook for 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. So, just set it and forget it while you do other things!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In your slow cooker, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, crushed tomatoes, plain yogurt, and butter. Then sprinkle in all the spices: garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, paprika, and sugar. Give everything a good stir so it’s well mixed!
2. Add the Chicken:
Now, add the chicken chunks to the slow cooker. Gently mix everything together to ensure the chicken is nicely coated in the sauce and spices. You want each piece to soak up that delicious flavor!
3. Cook It Up:
Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and full of flavor when it’s done. No stirring needed, just let it work its magic!
4. Add the Creaminess:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, creamy finish. Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve:
When it’s time to serve, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Pair your butter chicken with warm basmati rice or naan bread, and enjoy this comforting, delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; frozen chicken may need an extra hour to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. You can also use half-and-half or plain yogurt if you prefer a lower-fat choice. Just keep in mind that yogurt should be added at the end to avoid curdling!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens, you can add a splash of water or additional cream to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it into the slow cooker in the morning, set it to cook, and come home to a delicious meal!
