This Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is creamy, rich, and full of flavor. You just add chicken, spices, and sauce, and let your slow cooker do the magic!
I love how simple this dish is—no fuss at all! Just a little chopping and then I can kick back while it cooks. Perfect for lazy days or hosting friends! 🍛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use breasts or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Onion: A large onion adds a nice base layer of flavor. If you’re short on time, you could use onion powder instead—about 1 tablespoon should do.
Coconut Cream: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut cream works great! It gives a lovely richness to the sauce. You could also use almond milk for a lighter version.
Spices: Garam masala is essential for that authentic Indian flavor. If you can’t find it, you can make a blend using equal parts cinnamon, cumin, and coriander.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt adds creaminess and tang. If you’re dairy-free, try using non-dairy yogurt or skip it altogether for a slightly different texture.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken in a Slow Cooker?
Slow cooking is all about tenderizing the chicken while letting the flavors meld. Start by layering the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger at the bottom of the cooker. This helps in flavor development.
- Place chicken on top of the aromatics to stay moist.
- Cook it on low for 6-8 hours to really break down the fibers and absorb all the spices.
- Add the cream and yogurt about 30 minutes before serving to prevent curdling.
By cooking slowly, you really let the spices infuse into the chicken, resulting in a rich and delicious dish. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
For the Base:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
For the Spices:
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
For Serving:
- Cooked basmati rice or naan bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 6 to 8 hours of cooking on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Just let the slow cooker do the work while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Begin by placing the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger into your slow cooker. This aromatic mix will form the flavorful base of your dish.
2. Add the Chicken:
Next, add the chicken chunks to the slow cooker. On top of the chicken, sprinkle the garam masala, ground cumin, turmeric, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gently toss everything together to ensure the chicken is well coated with the spices.
3. Pour in the Tomatoes:
Pour the crushed tomatoes over the chicken and spices. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. This will create a lovely sauce as it cooks.
4. Cover and Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and cooked through when it’s done.
5. Make it Creamy:
About 30 minutes before serving, add the unsalted butter, heavy cream, and yogurt to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine everything. Cook on low until heated through. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, you can stir in some sugar or honey at this time.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your butter chicken and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it needs more salt or spice, feel free to add it now!
7. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish your butter chicken with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot alongside cooked basmati rice or warm naan bread for dipping.
Throw on a movie, take a seat, and enjoy your creamy, comforting Indian Butter Chicken! Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick method of submerging it in cold water in a sealed bag. Ensure it’s fully thawed before adding to the slow cooker.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, simply substitute the heavy cream and yogurt with coconut cream and non-dairy yogurt. This will give you a creamy texture while keeping it vegan-friendly!
What Should I Do if I Want a Spicier Dish?
If you prefer more heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also serve the dish with hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or cream to loosen it up if needed!
