If you have ever craved a rich and flavorful Indian feast that practically cooks itself, then this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken thighs slowly simmered in a luscious blend of tomato, coconut milk, and an aromatic symphony of spices, finished with a velvety swirl of butter and cream. This dish delivers all the warm, comforting depth of classic butter chicken, but with effortless prep and a hands-off cooking method that fills your home with irresistible aromas for hours. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your slow cooker adventures, this recipe offers a foolproof way to enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a simple yet thoughtfully curated selection of ingredients is key to making this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe shine. Each ingredient plays a vital role, adding layers of flavor, richness, and balance. From the spices that build its signature warmth to the creamy coconut milk and butter that create that iconic silky sauce, you’ll see how easy it is to turn everyday pantry staples into something truly special.
- Chicken thighs (2 lbs, boneless and skinless): Juicy and tender, perfect for slow cooking without drying out.
- Large onion (1, finely chopped): Adds natural sweetness and depth to the base of the sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Boosts savory notes and aromatic complexity.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, minced): Provides a delightful zing and warmth.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 oz): Forms the tangy foundation of the sauce.
- Coconut milk (1 can, 14 oz): Adds creaminess and subtle tropical flavor.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Enhances creaminess with a mild tang and tenderizes chicken.
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Intensifies richness and helps achieve the silky texture.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, cut into small pieces): Melts into a luscious finish that makes this dish truly indulgent.
- Garam masala (3 tablespoons): The quintessential spice blend that brings warmth and complexity.
- Curry powder (1 tablespoon): Adds earthiness and color.
- Ground cumin (1 tablespoon): Provides nutty, smoky undertones.
- Paprika (1 tablespoon): Delivers mild sweetness and vibrant red hue.
- Turmeric (1 teaspoon): Boosts color and adds subtle bitterness.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Introduces gentle heat and depth.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a touch of sharpness.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a surprising hint of sweetness and warmth.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who like an extra kick of heat.
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes.
- Cooked basmati rice: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Naan bread: Ideal for dipping and savoring every bit of sauce.
How to Make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and to capture that tender texture we all love. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic and fresh ginger—it’s these fresh aromatics that set the stage for the sauce’s deep flavor.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Your Slow Cooker
Into your slow cooker, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, along with the tomato sauce, coconut milk, Greek yogurt, and heavy cream. Stir in all the spices—from garam masala to paprika, turmeric, and a pinch of cayenne if you’re feeling adventurous. This mix of creamy and aromatic ingredients is what makes this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe so unforgettable.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces into the slow cooker and stir gently until every piece is coated with that flavorful sauce. This careful coating ensures each bite is saturated with spices and creaminess.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while the spices mingle and deepen, creating an irresistible sauce that’s thick, fragrant, and luscious.
Step 5: Finish with Butter for Richness
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the butter pieces. This little step is a game changer, as the butter melts into the sauce, adding the signature richness and silkiness that completes this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—this is your moment to make it perfect.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the butter chicken hot over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, letting the rice soak up all that amazing sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and alongside warm naan bread to scoop up every last bit. Your slow cooker has done the hard work, now it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is an absolute must—its bright, herbaceous flavor cuts through the richness and adds a lovely pop of color that makes the dish visually inviting. You can also add a drizzle of cream on top for an elegant touch or some finely sliced green chilies if you like things spicy.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with steaming basmati rice, which absorbs the sauce perfectly. For an even more authentic experience, serve it with warm naan bread straight from the oven or lightly toasted. You might also consider simple cucumber raita to cool the palate or a fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette to add brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special twist, serve the butter chicken in individual bowls with decorative sprigs of cilantro and a wedge of lime on the side for a zesty squeeze. Layer the chicken over a bed of saffron-infused rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. If hosting a dinner party, you can place it in a beautiful serving dish with a warm naan basket alongside for easy self-serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe makes delicious leftovers because the flavors continue to meld overnight. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens nicely and tastes even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the butter chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing. Freezing is a fantastic way to have a ready-made, flavorful meal on hand for busy days when you want something comforting without the effort.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce warms evenly and remains creamy. Add a splash of cream or a little water if the sauce thickens too much during storage. This dish reheats beautifully without losing its signature richness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely, but keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out more easily during slow cooking, so cook on low and check for doneness slightly earlier. Thighs are preferred for their tenderness and juiciness.
Can I make this recipe without coconut milk?
Yes, you can substitute coconut milk with additional heavy cream or use a blend of cream and yogurt. Coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness and richness but is not mandatory.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The spice level is moderate and can be easily adjusted by altering the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper. It’s flavorful without being overwhelming, and perfect for those who prefer mild to medium heat.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, slow cooker butter chicken can be assembled the night before and refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. This can actually help the flavors develop even further.
What can I use instead of naan bread?
Great alternatives include roti, paratha, or even pita bread. Any soft, warm bread that can scoop up the sauce will pair wonderfully with this dish.
Final Thoughts
Making this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is like inviting warmth, comfort, and incredible flavors right into your kitchen with almost no fuss. It’s a dish that brings people together, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual weekend feasts. I’m confident once you try it, this recipe will become a beloved staple, making you wonder how you ever lived without it. So, grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy one of the tastiest, easiest meals you’ll ever make.
Print
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes (low) or 4 hours 20 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish made with tender boneless chicken thighs simmered in a spiced tomato and coconut milk sauce. Enhanced with Greek yogurt, heavy cream, and butter, it offers a luscious, flavorful experience perfect for an easy, hands-off weeknight dinner. Serve with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Aromatics and Base
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Liquids
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Spices
- 3 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For Serving and Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked basmati rice (for serving)
- Naan bread (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic and ginger carefully to prepare the aromatic base for the dish.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In a 6-quart slow cooker, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Pour in the tomato sauce, coconut milk, Greek yogurt, and heavy cream. Stir in the garam masala, curry powder, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and optional cayenne pepper to build the complex, spiced sauce.
- Add the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces into the slow cooker and stir thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well coated with the sauce and spices, allowing flavors to meld during cooking.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender, fully cooked, and has absorbed the spices and creaminess from the sauce.
- Finish the Dish: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the butter pieces so they melt and add rich flavor and silky texture to the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to balance flavors.
- Serve: Serve the butter chicken hot over cooked basmati rice. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for brightness. Offer warm naan bread on the side for dipping into the luscious sauce, completing this comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra heat, include the optional cayenne pepper.
- Using boneless skinless chicken thighs keeps the meat tender and flavorful in the slow cooker.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess and slight tartness, balancing the spices.
- Butter added at the end enriches the sauce and enhances authenticity.
- Serve immediately with fresh cilantro garnish for best flavor and presentation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to preserve creaminess.
