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Slow Cooker Butter Chicken4
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Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

This slow cooker butter chicken recipe offers tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy, aromatic tomato-based sauce infused with traditional Indian spices, perfect for an easy, flavorful meal.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time6 hours
Total Time6 hours 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Butter Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy, Slow Cooker
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Cover your slow cooker and cook the chicken on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Avoid opening the lid too often to retain heat.
  • About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the small cubes of unsalted butter and the heavy cream. Replace the lid and let it cook for the remaining time.
  • Once everything is cooked through and the sauce is creamy and flavorful, sprinkle fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro over the top for garnish. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or your favorite sides.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Medium Bowl

Notes

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for best flavor and tenderness. For less spice, reduce or omit chili powder. Toast spices briefly for extra flavor. If sauce is too thick, add water or chicken broth. Leftovers improve in flavor after a day. For vegetarian versions, substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower. Adjust spice levels and cream alternatives as desired.