This Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a warm and cozy dish you’ll love! It’s creamy, slightly spicy, and packed with flavor, all thanks to the tasty spices and rich sauce.
The best part? You simply throw everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I like to serve it with rice or naan, so I can soak up all that delicious sauce! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless thighs are perfect for this dish because they stay juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts work well too. You can substitute tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version!
Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan of coconut, substitute with more heavy cream or plain yogurt for richness.
Tomato Sauce: A good-quality tomato sauce is key. If you have canned tomatoes, you can blend them for a homemade sauce. For a twist, try using crushed tomatoes or passata.
Garam Masala: This spice blend gives the dish its signature flavor. If you don’t have it, combine equal parts of cumin, cardamom, and coriander as a substitute.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Sauce?
To get that rich, creamy sauce, you need the right timing. Stir in butter and cream about 30 minutes before serving. This final step gives the sauce time to thicken without losing that creamy texture.
- Cook with the lid off after adding the cream to let steam escape.
- Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the sides.
- If you find it’s still too thin, you can mix a little cornstarch with water and add it in to thicken further.
Follow these tips, and your butter chicken will be a hit every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 😊
Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/3 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 1/2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Cooked rice or naan, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll need about 6-8 hours for slow cooking on low, or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a great set-it-and-forget-it meal that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set them aside. Having uniform sizes helps them cook evenly.
2. Mix the Aromatics:
In your slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This mix will give your dish a wonderful fragrance and flavor.
3. Add the Spices:
Now sprinkle in the spices: garam masala, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder (or cayenne), salt, and sugar. Stir them together so the spices surround the onion mixture evenly.
4. Stir in the Tomato Sauce:
Add the tomato sauce to the slow cooker and mix well. This is where the magic starts as the tomato blends with the spices, creating a rich base.
5. Add the Chicken:
Gently place the bite-sized chicken pieces into the slow cooker, making sure they get coated with that flavorful sauce. This will keep them moist as they cook.
6. Cover and Cook:
Put the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and cooked through.
7. Finish with Creaminess:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in the butter, heavy cream (or coconut milk), and yogurt if you’re using it. This will make your sauce creamy and rich. Cook with the lid off to help thicken it up.
8. Final Touches:
Taste your butter chicken and adjust any seasonings, adding more salt or spices as needed. Taste testing is always fun!
9. Serve It Up:
Once ready, serve the butter chicken hot over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or with warm naan bread. Don’t forget to soak up all that delicious sauce!
10. Garnish:
Lastly, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken!
Happy cooking and enjoy your meal! 😊
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure it’s cooked for a longer time—about 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. It’s best to thaw it if possible, as this will help it cook evenly and absorb more flavors from the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, or use plain yogurt or cashew cream for added creaminess. Just stir it in 30 minutes before serving for the best results!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or paneer and reduce the cooking time to accommodate these ingredients. You may also want to add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Enjoy your cooking journey with this delicious recipe!
