This Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a creamy, delicious dish packed with spices and tender chicken. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic!
Who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself while you relax? I like to serve it with rice or naan, and my family can’t get enough of it. Dinner made easy, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. If you want to use chicken breasts, it will work too, but be careful not to overcook as they can dry out.
Tomato Sauce: You can use either tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes – both add great flavor. If you prefer it spicier, a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies can give it a kick.
Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk: Heavy cream creates a rich taste, while coconut milk is a fantastic dairy-free option. Either way, they bring creaminess to the dish. I often use coconut milk for a subtle tropical flavor.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt adds tanginess and creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute it with a dairy-free yogurt or skip it entirely for a still enjoyable flavor.
Spices: Garam masala is key here for that authentic flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of cinnamon, cumin, and coriander can work in a pinch. Don’t hesitate to adjust the chili powder to find your heat balance!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Turns Out Tender?
To get juicy, tender chicken, it’s essential to cook it low and slow. Here’s how:
- Start with diced chicken thighs for even cooking, as they stay juicy compared to breasts.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours rather than high if you can. Low heat allows the chicken to tenderize beautifully.
- 30 minutes before serving, mix in the cream and yogurt. This helps prevent curdling and adds richness without overcooking the chicken.
Always check for doneness and give it a taste to see if more seasoning is needed. You want your butter chicken to be full of flavor and perfectly textured!
Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
For the Sauce:
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 3 tbsp butter
For the Flavor:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked basmati rice or naan bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll cook it in the slow cooker for about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it up and relax while it does the work for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In the slow cooker, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. This forms the flavorful base of your butter chicken!
2. Add the Sauce Ingredients:
Next, pour in the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Then, sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Stir well so all the spices mix evenly into the sauce.
3. Add the Chicken:
Toss the chicken pieces into the slow cooker, coating them well with the sauce mixture. Make sure they’re all covered so they can soak up that delicious flavor as they cook.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. If you have time, choose low for 6-7 hours; if you’re in a hurry, high for 3-4 hours works too. The chicken should be tender and cooked through by the end.
5. Finishing Touches:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, stir in the butter, heavy cream (or coconut milk), plain yogurt, and lemon juice. Mix it all together well. This will create that rich, creamy texture we love in butter chicken!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the butter chicken and see if it needs more seasoning—maybe a little extra salt or chili if you love the heat!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Serve the butter chicken hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up all that lovely sauce.
Enjoy your rich, creamy slow cooker butter chicken with minimal effort—it’s a comforting dinner that everyone will love!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if preferred. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as chicken breasts can dry out if cooked too long. Aim for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, coconut milk is a great substitute! It will add a delicious tropical flavor. Alternatively, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you want to keep it creamy without the full richness.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! You can increase the chili powder, or try adding diced green chilies for extra heat. Start with a small amount, and gradually add more until it reaches your desired spice level!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen it up!
