Butter Chicken (Slow Cooker)

Butter Chicken is a creamy, rich, and flavorful Indian dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce with butter and cream. Making it in the slow cooker allows the flavors to develop beautifully while keeping the cooking process simple and hands-off. Serve it with basmati rice or naan for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy & Hands-Off – Let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
• Rich & Creamy – A velvety tomato sauce with the perfect balance of spices.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!
• Kid-Friendly – Mild spice with a creamy texture makes it great for the whole family.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level to your preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Garam masala
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Smoked paprika
• Turmeric
• Salt and pepper
• Tomato paste
• Crushed tomatoes
• Heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• Butter
• Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For Serving:

• Cooked basmati rice
• Naan bread
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix the garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture onto the chicken.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Butter Chicken

1. Add the spiced chicken to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.

Step 3: Finish the Sauce

1. Stir in the butter and heavy cream (or coconut milk) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

• Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) | 3-4 hours (high)

Variations

• Spicier Version – Add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.
• Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and ghee instead of butter.
• Vegetarian Butter Chicken – Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas.
• Extra Creamy – Stir in a little more cream or a dollop of yogurt before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs stay juicier and more tender in the slow cooker.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, let it cook uncovered for the last 20 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Pressure cook on High for 10 minutes, then stir in butter and cream after releasing pressure.

What can I serve with butter chicken?

Basmati rice, naan, roasted vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

How do I adjust the spice level?

For a milder dish, reduce the garam masala and paprika. For more heat, add cayenne or extra chili powder.

What kind of cream should I use?

Heavy cream gives the richest flavor, but half-and-half or coconut milk work as well.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Try adding bell peppers, spinach, or peas in the last 30 minutes.

What’s the difference between butter chicken and tikka masala?

Butter chicken is creamier and slightly sweeter, while tikka masala has a more intense tomato-based sauce.

Can I cook this on the stovetop?

Yes! Simmer the chicken in the sauce for about 30-40 minutes over medium-low heat.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. The slow-cooked chicken melts in your mouth, and the creamy, spiced sauce is perfect for soaking up with naan or rice. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

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