Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm, creamy, and flavorful butter chicken simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe takes the classic Indian favorite and makes it incredibly easy to prepare, letting your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. With tender chicken thighs enveloped in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices, garlic, and ginger, each bite is a celebration of rich, savory goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to Indian cuisine, this slow cooker butter chicken is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This slow cooker butter chicken recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare—just mix the ingredients, set the slow cooker, and walk away. The low and slow cooking process allows the chicken to soak up all the spices and flavors, resulting in tender, juicy meat that melts in your mouth. The creamy sauce, enriched with butter and heavy cream, offers the perfect balance of spice and richness without being overwhelming. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or even roasted vegetables.

If you love restaurant-style butter chicken but want to avoid the hassle of multiple pots and constant stirring, this recipe is your go-to. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. And with fresh garlic, ginger, and a blend of warming spices, you get authentic flavors without needing a pantry full of exotic ingredients.

Ingredients

• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 16 oz (450g) tomato sauce or passata
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala click for recipe
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar or honey
• 2 lb (900g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream (double cream in the UK)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro for garnish

How To Make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics and Sauce Base

In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, tomato sauce, ground cumin, garam masala, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, chili powder, salt, and sugar or honey. Whisk everything together until fully incorporated. This spice and tomato mixture forms the heart of your butter chicken sauce, packed with layers of flavor.

Step 2: Add Chicken to the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. The slow cooker will gently infuse the chicken with the spices and tomato goodness as it cooks.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and cook the chicken on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer cooking time on low heat will yield the most tender, juicy chicken. Avoid opening the lid too often, as this lets the heat escape and can increase cooking time.

Step 4: Add Butter and Cream

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the small cubes of unsalted butter and the heavy cream. This step enriches the sauce with a silky, creamy texture and a luscious richness that balances the spices beautifully. Replace the lid and let it cook for the remaining time.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is cooked through and the sauce is creamy and flavorful, sprinkle fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or your favorite sides.

Expert Tips

• Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness. They stay juicy and absorb the sauce better than chicken breasts.
• If you prefer a less spicy dish, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether.
• For extra depth, toast your spices briefly in a dry pan before adding them to the sauce mixture.
• Make sure to cut the butter into small cubes so it melts evenly and incorporates smoothly into the sauce.
• If your sauce is too thick after cooking, add a splash of water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken thighs with firm tofu or cauliflower florets. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
• Spice level: Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hotter dish, or add a dollop of yogurt at serving time to cool it down.
• Richer sauce: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative with a subtle coconut flavor.
• Herb garnish: Experiment with fresh mint, cilantro, or parsley to find your favorite finishing touch.
• Extra veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or peas during the last hour of cooking for added texture and nutrients.

How to Store Leftovers

Allow the butter chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, stir in a splash of water or cream to loosen it up.

For longer storage, butter chicken freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they tend to be leaner and can dry out more easily during slow cooking. To keep them tender, cook on low for less time and avoid overcooking. Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! To increase the heat, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also include finely chopped fresh chili peppers if you like a stronger kick. Remember to adjust the spice level gradually to suit your taste.

What can I serve with slow cooker butter chicken?

Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan bread, roti, or even steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli. For a complete meal, add a simple cucumber raita (yogurt sauce) or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply set the slow cooker to the desired time and temperature. This makes it a perfect recipe for busy days or entertaining guests.

Conclusion

Slow cooker butter chicken is a delicious, fuss-free way to enjoy one of the world’s most beloved Indian dishes in the comfort of your own home. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and the magic of slow cooking, you’ll create tender chicken bathed in a rich, creamy sauce bursting with authentic spices. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor every time. Give it a try and discover your new favorite slow cooker meal!