This Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s super easy to make. Just toss in chicken, spices, and sauce, and let your slow cooker do the magic!
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love serving it with rice or naan, and it makes my kitchen smell amazing. Plus, who doesn’t love an effortless meal? 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless thighs for their tenderness and flavor. If you’re not a fan, chicken breasts work just as well. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute with chickpeas or paneer.
Onions: A large onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. If you’re short on time, you could use onion powder, but fresh onions give the best flavor.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, try coconut milk. It blends beautifully with the spices and is great for dairy-free diets!
Spices: Garam masala is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, create your own mix with what you have on hand, combining cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon.
Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you more control over the dish’s saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead.
How Do You Ensure Perfect Cooking in a Slow Cooker?
Using a slow cooker is fantastic, but timing is essential. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Layer ingredients starting with the onions and spices, then add chicken on top. This helps evenly distribute flavors.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Check for doneness at the earlier mark—chicken should be tender and fully cooked.
- Stir in cream and butter about 30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld and thickens the sauce.
For the best results, avoid opening the lid frequently—each peek can add extra cooking time. Enjoy your creamy butter chicken!
Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, 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 or tomato puree
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or coconut milk
- 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
For the Spices:
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious butter chicken will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 6-7 hours to cook on low, or 3-4 hours on high. So, it’s perfect for a hands-off cooking experience! Just set it and forget it until it’s time to enjoy a hearty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce Base:
In your slow cooker, toss in the chopped onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, and the entire can of crushed tomatoes. Next, sprinkle in the garam masala, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all the spices well.
2. Add the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to add the chicken chunks into the slow cooker. Toss them in the sauce mixture until they are nicely coated. This will ensure that the chicken absorbs all those amazing flavors while cooking.
3. Slow Cook:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for about 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and fully cooked through—just give it a check after the minimum time.
4. Stir in the Cream:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, open the slow cooker and stir in the butter and heavy cream (or coconut milk). If you’re using yogurt for extra creaminess, add that too! Mix well to create a rich, velvety sauce.
5. Final Touches:
Taste your butter chicken and adjust the seasoning if necessary—maybe a pinch more salt or chili for heat. Let it simmer for those final 30 minutes to thicken up and allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is ready! Serve it hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. It pairs perfectly with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for soaking up that delicious sauce.
This recipe is truly an effortless way to bring a comforting, Indian-inspired meal to your table with minimal fuss. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to cook it on high for a slightly longer time, around 5-6 hours, until it’s fully cooked. However, thawing the chicken beforehand will give you the best texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Just make sure to choose a variety that has a creamy consistency for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or more cream to loosen it up.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes, you can customize the spice level according to your preference! To make it milder, reduce the amount of chili powder. If you love heat, consider adding a bit more or some diced green chilies during cooking. Enjoy experimenting with the flavors!
