Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the fragrant spices and rich flavors of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe offers tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy tomato sauce, combined with aromatic spices, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. Using a slow cooker allows you to enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience while filling your home with an inviting aroma that means dinner is ready.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
There are several reasons to fall in love with this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe. First and foremost, the combination of spices creates a depth of flavor that is both comforting and exciting. The creaminess from the heavy cream and butter counterbalances the spices perfectly, resulting in a sauce that is rich but not overwhelming. Moreover, this recipe is incredibly convenient. You can prepare it ahead of time and let your slow cooker do all the work, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. Lastly, you can customize it according to your taste preferences, so it can easily suit everyone at your table.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving
How to Make Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Directions
Creating this captivating dish is straightforward and offers a perfect introduction to Indian cuisine for anyone. Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Set aside a bowl where you will mix the spices. Combine the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, coriander, and salt in the bowl. This blend will serve as the backbone of flavor for your butter chicken.
Next, prepare your slow cooker. Start by placing the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger into the pot. This mix will form the flavorful base of your sauce. Then, layer the bite-sized pieces of chicken thighs on top. Ensure that the chicken is evenly distributed over the onion mixture.
Now, take your bowl of mixed spices and sprinkle it evenly over both the chicken and onions. It’s important to ensure all pieces are well coated to maximize flavor. Following this, pour the tomato puree over the chicken, allowing it to engulf everything beneath. This will become the luscious sauce that gives your butter chicken its signature taste.
Once everything is combined, set your slow cooker to low heat for about 6 to 7 hours or to high heat for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cooking process is what tenderizes the chicken and melds the flavors together beautifully, transforming your ingredients into a rich, aromatic dish.
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, stir in the heavy cream and the cut pieces of butter. This addition will create a creamy, rich texture that is the hallmark of a good butter chicken. Stir occasionally to help the butter melt completely into the sauce. Before serving, taste your dish and make sure to adjust the seasoning as you like. Adding a tablespoon of sugar helps balance the flavors and enhances the overall dish.
Finally, when you’re ready to serve, ladle the butter chicken into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves. Pair it with warm, fluffy basmati rice or soft naan for a complete and satisfying meal.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Serving Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is as important as preparing it. The way you present and accompany this dish can elevate the entire dining experience. Begin by plating generous portions of the butter chicken in shallow bowls, making sure each serving contains plenty of the rich sauce. This allows diners to appreciate the vibrant colors and textures of the meal.
Next, consider your accompaniments. Basmati rice is a classic choice that complements the rich, creamy sauce of the chicken perfectly. The light and airy nature of the rice helps balance the dish, making it even more enjoyable. Serve the rice in a separate bowl, so guests can add as much as they would like.
Another great accompaniment is naan, a soft and fluffy Indian bread. Naan is perfect for dipping into the sauce and enjoying every last bite. If you wish to make it more special, warm the naan slightly before serving to enhance its fluffy texture.
For a refreshing contrast to the meal, a simple cucumber salad or a side of pickled vegetables can add brightness to your plate. Also, don’t forget about beverages to accompany your meal. A cool, refreshing drink such as yogurt-based lassi can complement the spices beautifully.
Simply put, create a warm, inviting atmosphere where your loved ones can gather, enjoy, and savor the delightful flavors of your homemade Indian Butter Chicken.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
To achieve the best results in crafting your Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken, follow these expert tips that can enhance both flavor and convenience. First, quality matters—select good-quality chicken thighs as they provide rich flavor. Bone-in skin-on cuts can also be used but will require a bit more work when it comes to deboning and skinning after cooking.
When blending your spices, do not hesitate to adjust them according to your taste. If you enjoy a bit more heat, increase the chili powder or add a few crushed red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the spice amounts.
For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spice mix, yogurt, or buttermilk a few hours before cooking. This step adds a wonderful depth to the chicken’s flavor.
Additionally, if you want to incorporate some veggies into the dish, consider adding some peas or spinach about 30 minutes before serving to retain their color and texture. This not only enhances nutritional value but also makes the dish visually appealing.
Finally, always adjust seasoning at the end of cooking. Taste the dish before serving and fine-tune the flavors to your liking. A touch of sugar can help balance out acidity if the tomatoes are too pronounced, while a pinch of salt can bring out the flavors beautifully.
How to Store Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Storing your Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is quite simple, and it’s great for meal planning or leftovers. Once you’ve served your dish, allow the remaining butter chicken to cool down to room temperature. This cooling process is important as it prevents condensation from forming, which can affect the quality when refrigerated.
Transfer the cooled chicken and sauce into an airtight container. Make sure to store it in the refrigerator if you plan on consuming it within the next few days. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing the butter chicken instead. Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. In the freezer, it can last up to 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Be sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even heating. You may need to add a splash of cream or water to restore its consistency after freezing.
Variation of Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
One of the most wonderful aspects of the Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe is its versatility. There are plenty of variations you can try to create a dish that perfectly suits your taste or dietary needs.
For a healthier twist, consider using boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. While they are leaner, ensure not to overcook them to maintain moisture. Alternatively, for those who prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or paneer. Both options absorb the spices well and create a satisfying meal.
Adding vegetables can also be a great way to customize your recipe. Adding bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower, either during the initial cooking phase or added in the last hour, can provide extra nutrients and textures while enhancing the dish visually.
If you’re seeking to create more distinct flavor profiles, try infusing coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a tropical flair or using roasted tomatoes for a deeper taste. You can also experiment with different spice blends rather than the traditional garam masala. For instance, adding a hint of curry powder or tandoori spices can yield an entirely new experience.
No matter which variations you choose, the heart of this recipe will remain rooted in its comforting richness, ensuring that every bite is just as delightful as the last.
FAQ
What is Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken?
Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is a dish made with boneless chicken thighs slow-cooked in a rich, creamy tomato sauce spiced with garam masala and other aromatic spices. It’s known for its comforting flavors and tender meat.
How long does it take to cook butter chicken in a slow cooker?
You can cook Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for approximately 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can become dry if left in the slow cooker for too long.
How do I store leftover butter chicken?
To store leftover Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken, let it cool and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months.
What should I serve with butter chicken?
Butter chicken pairs beautifully with basmati rice or naan. You can also add a cucumber salad or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
Can I make this butter chicken recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or paneer and still enjoy the rich flavors of the sauce. You may also add a variety of vegetables to enhance the dish.
Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces Use good-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1.5 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust for heat preference.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
- 1.25 cups heavy cream
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 tablespoon sugar Helps balance flavors.
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish) For garnishing.
- as needed cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients and set aside a bowl for mixing spices.
- Combine garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, coriander, and salt in a bowl.
- Prepare the slow cooker; place chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger in the pot.
- Layer bite-sized chicken thighs evenly over the onion mixture.
- Sprinkle the mixed spices evenly over the chicken and onions.
- Pour the tomato puree over the chicken, ensuring it covers everything.
Cooking
- Set slow cooker to low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and butter pieces.
- Adjust seasoning, noting the option to add sugar if necessary for balance.
- Ladle butter chicken into bowls and garnish with cilantro.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!