Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a rich, comforting dish that practically cooks itself, then you’re going to adore this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe. I absolutely love how this turns out every time – the chicken gets super tender and juicy, soaking up all those flavorful spices while you go about your day. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, you’ll find that this recipe is a game-changer for easy weeknight dinners that feel special.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe come together beautifully to create the iconic creamy, spiced sauce that everyone loves. You’ll want to use good-quality spices and fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor punch.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the sauce a vibrant depth – avoid pre-minced jars when possible.
• Fresh ginger: Grated fresh ginger adds subtle warmth and brightness, key to authentic flavor.
• Tomato sauce (or passata): This provides the base of the sauce – I find passata smoother but either works.
• Ground cumin: Earthy and warming, cumin is absolutely essential here.
• Garam masala: The star spice blend – if you can, make your own for freshness (I have a quick recipe linked).
• Smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky note that sets this butter chicken apart.
• Ground turmeric: For warmth and that golden color.
• Chili powder: Just a touch to balance flavors without too much heat.
• Salt: Enhances every flavor – adjust to taste if needed.
• Granulated sugar (or honey): Balances acidity and rounds out the sauce.
• Chicken thighs: Perfect for slow cooking – they stay juicy and tender unlike breasts.
• Unsalted butter: Cubed and added in to melt into that luscious sauce.
• Heavy whipping cream (double cream): Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and rich.
• Fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro: For garnish – fresh herbs brighten everything up at the end.

Variations

I love that this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is flexible enough to make your own. Over time, I’ve tried a few twists depending on what I have on hand or who I’m cooking for – and it always turns out great.

• Variation: For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk – it adds a lovely tropical richness that’s different but delicious.
• Variation: If you like a bit of heat, adding a finely chopped green chili or a pinch of cayenne will warm things up nicely.
• Variation: I sometimes use boneless chicken breasts, but be mindful they cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
• Variation: Adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas in the last hour of cooking gives a nice pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Combine Your Aromatics and Spices

Start by adding the minced garlic, grated ginger, tomato sauce, and all your spices – cumin, garam masala, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and sugar – directly to the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to help those spices bloom in the sauce. This step sets the aromatic foundation for your butter chicken, so take a moment to savor the fragrant combination before moving on.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Butter

Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and use a spoon or your hands to coat each piece well with the spicy sauce. Scatter the small cubes of unsalted butter evenly on top. This butter will melt and enrich the sauce beautifully as it cooks. Cover with the lid.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow or High and Quick

Set your slow cooker on HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours if you’re short on time, or let it go on LOW for 4 to 6 hours for maximum tenderness. Either way, your goal is to reach an internal chicken temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s beautifully cooked through.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Chop the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the pieces and place them on a cutting board to cool just enough to handle. Meanwhile, stir the heavy cream into the sauce and whisk until creamy and smooth. Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces, then return it to the slow cooker and mix it through the sauce so every bite is coated in that silky gravy.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spoon your butter chicken over steaming hot basmati rice or alongside soft naan bread. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, mint, or cilantro on top for a fresh, bright finish. Trust me, that little touch makes all the difference.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of finishing the butter chicken with freshly chopped cilantro or sometimes a combo of parsley and mint – it cuts through the richness and adds a fresh, vibrant touch you’ll love. For a little extra zing, a squeeze of lime juice over the top is fantastic too.

Side Dishes

Traditionally, basmati rice and soft, buttery naan bread are my go-to sides. The fluffy rice is perfect for soaking up the sauce, while naan lets you scoop up every last bit. Sometimes, I add a simple cucumber raita or a crisp salad on the side to balance the creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I like to serve the Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe in small bowls or even over mini naan “bases” with a sprinkle of microgreens and pomegranate seeds for a pop of color. This makes it look extra special without extra work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, where they stay delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers taste even better in my experience!

Freezing

This butter chicken freezes really well – just portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When you thaw and reheat, the texture stays just as tender as freshly made.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much. Stirring frequently helps maintain that creamy texture without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I discovered how easy it is to get restaurant-quality butter chicken right at home, and since then, it’s become a staple in my meal rotation. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and the wonderful aroma make it impossible not to fall in love. I truly hope you enjoy making and eating this as much as my family and I do – it’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for any occasion.

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