Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Delight!

Name: Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Delight!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-485807H30M18S
Total time: PT-485807H30M18S
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: Chicken thighs: 1.5 lbs (about 680 grams), boneless and skinless; Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113 grams); Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped; Garlic: 4 cloves, minced; Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated; Tomato puree: 1 cup (240 ml); Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml); Garam masala: 2 tablespoons; Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste); Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste); Fresh cilantro: for garnish

May 20, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Introduction to Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows you to enjoy a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the hard work, making it perfect for busy days or cozy family dinners.

What Makes Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Special?

What sets Slow Cooker Butter Chicken apart is its creamy texture and aromatic spices. The combination of tender chicken thighs, buttery sauce, and fragrant spices creates a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich sauce that clings to the chicken.

Moreover, this recipe is versatile. You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a mild flavor or a spicy kick, you can customize it to your liking. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or warm naan, making it a complete meal.

Another reason to love this dish is its convenience. You can prepare it in the morning, set your slow cooker, and come home to a delicious dinner ready to serve. This makes it an ideal choice for busy families or anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine.

In summary, Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this mouthwatering journey!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Dish

To create a delicious Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, you need a few essential ingredients. These ingredients work together to build the rich and creamy flavor that makes this dish so special. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken thighs: 1.5 lbs (about 680 grams), boneless and skinless. Chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender during the slow cooking process.
Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113 grams). Butter adds a rich flavor and creaminess to the sauce.
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped. Onions provide a sweet and savory base for the dish.
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated. Fresh ginger gives a warm, spicy kick that complements the other flavors.
Tomato puree: 1 cup (240 ml). This ingredient forms the base of the sauce, adding both color and richness.
Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml). Heavy cream makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
Garam masala: 2 tablespoons. This spice blend is key to achieving the authentic flavor of butter chicken.
Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste). Salt enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste). Freshly ground pepper adds a hint of spice.
Fresh cilantro: for garnish. Cilantro adds a fresh touch and brightens the dish.

Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor

While the essential ingredients will give you a fantastic Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, you can also consider adding some optional ingredients to enhance the flavor even further:

Yogurt: Marinating the chicken in yogurt before cooking can add tanginess and tenderness.
Chili powder or cayenne pepper: If you like your butter chicken spicy, these ingredients can give it a nice kick.
Cashew nuts: Blending cashews into the sauce can add a nutty flavor and extra creaminess.
Green peas: Adding peas towards the end of cooking can introduce a pop of color and sweetness.
Lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors and add freshness.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a mouthwatering Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. Now, let’s move on to the preparation steps to bring this dish to life!

Preparation of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a great way to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Start by cutting the chicken thighs into large chunks. Then, season them with salt and pepper. If you choose to use yogurt, mix it with some garam masala and a pinch of salt. Coat the chicken pieces in this mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step is optional but highly recommended for a richer taste.

Step 2: Preparing the Sauce

Next, it’s time to prepare the sauce. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant. This aromatic base will add depth to your butter chicken.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Now, transfer the sautéed onion mixture to your slow cooker. Add the marinated chicken thighs, tomato puree, remaining butter, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. This is where the magic begins! The flavors will meld beautifully as they cook together.

Step 4: Cooking Time and Temperature

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork when it’s done. The slow cooking process allows the spices to infuse the chicken, creating a deliciously rich sauce.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream. This will give your butter chicken its signature creamy texture. Cover and continue to cook until heated through. If you prefer a rustic texture, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Finally, ladle the butter chicken into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve it warm with steamed rice or naan bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

FAQs about Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Can I use frozen chicken for the Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe! However, it’s important to note that cooking times may vary. If you start with frozen chicken, it’s best to cook it on low heat for 8-10 hours. This ensures that the chicken cooks thoroughly and remains tender. Just remember to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Butter Chicken?

The cooking time for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken depends on the heat setting you choose. If you set your slow cooker to low, it will take about 6-8 hours. On the other hand, if you opt for high heat, it will take around 3-4 hours. Regardless of the setting, the chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork when it’s done. Patience is key for the best flavor!

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe?

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some popular options:

Steamed Rice: Basmati rice is a classic choice. It soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
Naan Bread: Soft naan is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Quinoa: For a healthier option, serve it with quinoa. It adds a nutty flavor and extra protein.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted or sautéed vegetables can add color and nutrition to your meal.

Feel free to mix and match these sides to create a complete and satisfying meal!

Can I make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can make a dairy-free version of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. Instead of heavy cream, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. This will still give you a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free. Additionally, you can replace butter with a plant-based butter or oil. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste, as coconut milk can add a different flavor profile.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.