Delicious Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: Easy Recipe for a Flavorful Dinner

If you’re craving a dish that’s rich in flavor and effortlessly comforting, slow cooker butter chicken is your answer. This beloved Indian classic combines tender chicken pieces with a creamy, spiced sauce that’s simply irresistible. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—you toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

For a delicious slow cooker butter chicken, follow these steps to bring a taste of India to your kitchen with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For this slow cooker butter chicken, gather the following ingredients to bring out the rich and robust flavors of this beloved dish.

Chicken

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning, optional)

Marinade

1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon ginger (grated)

Sauce

1 large onion (finely chopped)
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)

Fresh cilantro (chopped, for serving)
½ cup plain yogurt or heavy cream (for drizzling)

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create delicious slow cooker butter chicken. You’ll enjoy the rich flavors and tender chicken with minimal hands-on time.

Prep

Trim any excess fat from 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Dice 1 medium onion finely and mince 4 cloves of garlic.
Peel and grate a 1-inch piece of ginger.
In a bowl, mix the chicken with 1 cup of plain yogurt and the juice of 1 lemon. Add 2 tablespoons of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor).
In the slow cooker, layer the diced onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and the marinated chicken mixture evenly.

Pour in 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce and 1 can (14 ounces) of coconut milk over the chicken.
Cut 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter into pieces and distribute them over the top.
Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and flavors meld together.
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce briefly.
Stir in 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt or heavy cream right before serving to add creaminess.
Serve the butter chicken over basmati rice or with naan, and garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.

Tools and Equipment

To prepare your slow cooker butter chicken effectively, gather the following tools and equipment:

Essential Tools

Slow Cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, providing ample space for all ingredients.
Chef’s Knife: Use a sharp chef’s knife for trimming chicken and chopping vegetables.
Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board ensures safe and efficient chopping.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements of spices and liquids are critical for balanced flavors.
Mixing Bowl: A medium mixing bowl allows you to combine the marinade ingredients before coating the chicken.

Additional Equipment

Immersion Blender: If you desire a smoother sauce, an immersion blender will puree the ingredients perfectly right in the slow cooker.
Spatula: A silicone spatula helps in mixing ingredients and scraping down the sides of the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
Serving Spoon: Use a large serving spoon for easy dish-out of the butter chicken.

Rice Cooker (optional): For perfectly cooked basmati rice, consider using a rice cooker to complement your butter chicken.
Naan or Flatbreads: These are ideal for serving alongside the dish for a complete meal experience.
Garnishing Plate: Have a small plate ready to display fresh cilantro for a colorful garnish.

Ensure you have these tools ready to streamline your cooking process, allowing you to focus on creating a delicious meal.

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can easily make slow cooker butter chicken ahead of time to simplify your meal preparation. Follow these steps to ensure optimal flavor and freshness.

Marinate the Chicken: Start by trimming and cutting the boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, ground spices, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken pieces and mix thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
Prep the Aromatics: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and ginger in advance. Store the chopped aromatics in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This step saves time on the day you plan to cook.
Assemble the Ingredients: On the day of cooking, layer the prepped aromatics and marinated chicken in the slow cooker. Pour the tomato sauce and coconut milk over the mixture and add cubed butter.
Cook the Dish: Set your slow cooker to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. You can also set the slow cooker to start later using a programmable feature to have it ready at mealtime.
Blend and Finish: Once the cooking time is complete, use an immersion blender for a smoother sauce if desired. Stir in Greek yogurt or heavy cream to enhance creaminess.
Store Leftovers: If you have leftovers, cool them down and transfer to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy this comforting dish with minimal hassle on a busy day.

Serving Suggestions

To enjoy your slow cooker butter chicken to its fullest, consider these delightful serving suggestions:

Serve Over Basmati Rice: The fluffy grains of basmati rice are ideal for soaking up the rich, creamy sauce of butter chicken. Cook the rice according to package instructions and fluff it with a fork before spooning the butter chicken on top.
Accompany with Naan or Flatbread: Warm naan or other flatbreads provide a perfect scoop for the butter chicken. For an authentic touch, brush the naan with garlic butter before serving.
Add a Side of Vegetables: Pair your meal with a refreshing cucumber raita or a side salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a lemon dressing. This adds a crunchy texture and balances the richness of the dish.
Top with Fresh Herbs: Garnish your butter chicken with chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of green onions for a burst of freshness. This enhances both flavor and presentation.
Include a Yogurt Side: A dollop of plain yogurt or Greek yogurt can help temper the spice and enhance the creaminess. Serve it on the side for guests to add as they like.
Pair with a Beverage: Consider serving a cool beverage such as mango lassi or iced tea to complement the spices in your butter chicken.

Experiment with these ideas to create a memorable meal that highlights the comforting essence of your slow cooker butter chicken.

Conclusion

Slow cooker butter chicken is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings warmth and flavor to your table. With its rich spices and creamy texture it’s sure to become a family favorite. The convenience of the slow cooker means you can enjoy this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you serve it over basmati rice or with warm naan the combination is simply irresistible. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for that extra touch. Embrace this easy recipe and savor the delightful flavors of India right at home. Enjoy every bite as you create lasting memories around the dinner table.