Making dinner should be simple, delicious, and easy, and that’s precisely what Slow Cooker Butter Chicken brings to your table. This classic Indian dish is known for its creamy sauce and tender pieces of chicken, making it a favorite among families and friends. With the power of your slow cooker, you can enjoy the wonderful flavors of this dish without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
One of the best aspects of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is how uncomplicated the process is. You can easily prepare it in advance, which allows you to focus on spending quality time with your loved ones while it cooks gently and magically transforms. The blend of spices combined with the creamy sauce creates a rich flavor that will awaken your taste buds. Not to mention, the smell wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner time!
You will find that this dish is adaptable as well. If you have dietary restrictions or prefer alternatives, there are numerous ways you can tweak the recipe while still enjoying that delightful taste. So, let’s dive into what makes this butter chicken so special and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
To get started, gathering the right ingredients is essential. Here’s everything you will need to whip up this amazing dish:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 14 oz tomato sauce
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt or to taste
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
How to Make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Directions
Now, let’s walk through how to prepare this fabulous dish. Start by marinating your chicken to infuse it with all that luscious flavor. In a bowl or a large ziplock bag, combine the chicken cubes with the yogurt, ginger, garlic powder, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, red chili powder, paprika, and salt. Be sure to mix everything thoroughly, making sure the chicken is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the bag and let it marinate. Ideally, you want to let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but for the best results, let it marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
Once your chicken is marinated, it’s time to crank up the heat. Place a large skillet on medium-high heat and add olive oil. Let the oil heat up before adding the chicken in batches. You will cook each batch for about 3-5 minutes per side until it’s browned. After browning the chicken, set it aside and cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
Next, it’s time to create the aromatic base for your sauce. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it has melted, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir the mixture for about 2 minutes, allowing the onion to become translucent and fragrant. Now, add the cumin, garam masala, red chili powder, sugar, and paprika. Cook these spices for an additional minute.
Now that you have a fragrant mixture, transfer it to your slow cooker. Add the browned chicken pieces, the tomato sauce, and the evaporated milk to the slow cooker. Season everything with salt and pepper to fit your taste. Give the contents a gentle stir to combine everything thoroughly.
Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6-7 hours. Alternatively, you can switch it to high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add the heavy cream for that extra luxurious finish. This will enrich your dish and create the smooth, buttery texture that is the hallmark of butter chicken.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
When it’s finally time to serve your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, you’ll want to dish it out generously. The best way to enjoy this creamy delight is to pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. Both options are excellent for soaking up that flavorful sauce.
Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro on top for an aromatic touch that adds a lovely burst of color. You might also consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad to balance out the richness of the dish. Guests will surely rave about your culinary skills, and you’ll be delighted to see empty plates at the end of the meal.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
To make sure your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips to consider:
- Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the chicken overnight. This will help deepen the flavors.
- Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the red chili powder according to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount, or add a little more if you enjoy heat.
- Searing Chicken: Although not mandatory, searing the chicken pieces adds depth to the flavor. Just be careful not to overcrowd the skillet while browning.
- Using Different Cuts: You can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts for a more flavorful outcome. Dark meat generally yields a moister dish.
- Freezing Portions: If you have leftovers, this dish freezes well. Just make sure it cools completely before storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
How to Store Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, you may wonder how to properly store any leftovers. This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option! Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
There are countless ways to put your spin on Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for chickpeas or paneer for a vegetarian delight. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these ingredients do not need as long to cook.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, spinach, or peas into the dish for added nutrition. Just add them during the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking.
- Coconut Milk: For a twist on the creaminess, try using coconut milk instead of evaporated milk or heavy cream. This will provide a lovely tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Spicy Version: If you enjoy a kick, toss in some sliced fresh green chilies or increase the amount of red chili powder.
FAQ
What is slow cooker butter chicken?
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a popular Indian-inspired dish that consists of chicken marinated in spices and yogurt, cooked in a creamy tomato sauce. It’s made in a slow cooker to ensure the chicken becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully over time.
How can I make slow cooker butter chicken ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce beforehand, storing them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, you can add everything to the slow cooker and cook it according to the directions.
Can I adjust the spice level in slow cooker butter chicken?
Absolutely! You can customize the spice levels according to your taste. Use less red chili powder for a milder flavor or add more if you want a spicier version.
What should I serve with slow cooker butter chicken?
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Add some fresh cilantro on top for flavor and presentation.
Can I freeze leftover slow cooker butter chicken?
Yes! You can freeze leftover butter chicken. Make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last for up to three months in the freezer.
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Chicken Breasts or Thighs Cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Minced Ginger
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 tablespoon Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 large Onion Diced
- 5 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 tablespoon Ginger Minced
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Powder
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 14 oz Tomato Sauce
- 1.25 teaspoons Salt Or to taste
- 1 cup Evaporated Milk
- 0.5 cup Heavy Cream
Instructions
- In a bowl or large ziplock bag, combine chicken with yogurt, ginger, garlic powder, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, red chili powder, paprika, and salt. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the marinated chicken in batches for about 3-5 minutes per side, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and reduce heat to medium. Sauté diced onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add cumin, garam masala, red chili powder, sugar, and paprika to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
- Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add the browned chicken, tomato sauce, and evaporated milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream.
- Serve with basmati rice or naan, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
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