If you have ever dreamed of savoring a rich, creamy, and deeply aromatic curry without spending hours in the kitchen, then this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is going to be your new best friend. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken simmered in a luscious tomato and spice-infused sauce, perfectly balanced by creamy yogurt and butter for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. It captures all the comforting flavors of traditional butter chicken but with the effortless magic of a slow cooker, making it ideal for busy days or cozy evenings at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity, using everyday ingredients that combine to deliver vibrant flavor and comforting texture. Each item plays a crucial role, from the spices that build layers of warmth to the creamy elements that make it indulgently smooth.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Perfectly tender and flavorful, these hold up wonderfully during slow cooking.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and forms the base of the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with signature aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Provides a zesty, peppery kick that brightens the curry.
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce: Gives the dish its rich, vibrant red color and tangy base.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt: Creates creaminess and tenderizes the chicken gently.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Envelops the dish in a luxurious, velvety texture at the end.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Earthy and warm, essential for authentic flavor.
- 2 teaspoons garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that defines the curry’s taste.
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric: Gives an inviting golden hue and subtle earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a lemony, floral nuance.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers mild sweetness and color depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Just enough heat to excite the palate without overwhelming it.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Enhances richness and gives that signature buttery finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and lifts all the flavors.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish: Brings fresh, herbal brightness to each bite.
- Cooked basmati rice or naan bread, for serving: The perfect vehicles to soak up the divine sauce.
How to Make Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Begin by placing your bite-sized chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Season generously with salt and pepper to ensure every piece is flavorful. This simple step is the foundation of a deeply infused dish as the chicken soaks up the spices.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, tomato sauce, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and all the aromatic spices: cumin, garam masala, turmeric, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This blend is bursting with flavor and will form the luscious sauce that envelopes the chicken.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the vibrant sauce mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Use a spoon or spatula to mix gently so each piece of chicken is fully coated in the luscious, spice-laden sauce, ensuring every bite is equally delicious.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or choose high for a quicker 4-hour cook. This slow simmering allows the spices to meld beautifully and the chicken to become tender and juicy, absorbing every ounce of flavor.
Step 5: Add Cream and Butter
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, stir in the heavy cream and butter directly into the slow cooker. This step elevates the dish, creating a velvety, rich sauce that’s smooth and indulgent. Let it gently simmer until the butter is melted and the sauce is perfectly combined.
Step 6: Final Seasoning Adjustments
Taste your slow cooker masterpiece and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or spices if necessary. This ensures the dish is perfectly tailored to your palate before serving.
Step 7: Ready to Serve
Serve your Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Recipe piping hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and accompanied by fragrant basmati rice or soft naan bread—ideal for soaking up the irresistible sauce.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped cilantro sprinkled on top brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal note, balancing the richness of the creamy butter chicken. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the table can also enliven the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Basmati rice is a classic and subtle accompaniment that perfectly absorbs the luscious sauce. Alternatively, warm naan bread offers a comforting, fluffy texture that pairs wonderfully with scooping the curry. For a lighter option, try a crisp cucumber raita or a simple side salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the butter chicken in a large decorative bowl with cilantro and lemon wedges on the side. Layer it over saffron-infused rice for an elegant touch, or spoon it into pita pockets with crisp veggies for a fusion-inspired wrap that’s guaranteed to wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your butter chicken cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals or next-day lunches.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the curry into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the butter chicken on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to re-incorporate the creamy butter and cream. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the sauce’s silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While chicken breasts work in a pinch, thighs remain moist and tender after long cooking periods, making them ideal for this recipe’s slow cooker method.
Can I make this recipe spicy or mild?
Absolutely! Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference or omit it for a mild version. You can always add a dash of chili powder for an extra kick.
Is Greek yogurt necessary?
Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, plus helps tenderize the chicken. You can substitute with regular plain yogurt if needed, but avoid flavored varieties.
Can this recipe be made in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can simmer the sauce on the stovetop over low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour, but the slow cooker gives the best tender results with minimal effort.
What are some good vegetarian alternatives?
Try substituting chicken with firm tofu, paneer, or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian take that still soaks up the rich, spiced sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a slow-cooked curry that fills your home with irresistible aromas and promises a comforting meal at the end of the day. This Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Recipe is a treasure — easy to prepare yet brimming with authentic, complex flavors that will delight anyone lucky enough to taste it. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and share it with your loved ones for many cozy, delicious moments to come.
Print
Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 6h 0m
- Total Time: 6h 20m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic Indian dish with tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, creamy, and spiced tomato sauce. Perfect for busy days, this recipe uses a slow cooker to meld all the authentic flavors effortlessly, resulting in a comforting meal that pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan bread.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Spices and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
Garnish and Serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Cooked basmati rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken thigh pieces in the slow cooker and season them evenly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Make the spice mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, tomato sauce, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and all the ground spices including cumin, garam masala, turmeric, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well until thoroughly blended.
- Combine ingredients: Pour the prepared mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring every piece is fully coated with the spiced sauce.
- Slow cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and the flavors to meld.
- Add cream and butter: Approximately 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and butter into the slow cooker. Let it simmer gently until the butter melts and integrates smoothly into the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the butter chicken and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or spices if desired to suit your palate.
- Serve: Serve the hot butter chicken garnished with freshly chopped cilantro alongside cooked basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures the dish stays juicy and tender throughout the long cooking time.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the spices.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your spice preference; reduce or omit for milder flavors.
- For a richer taste, full-fat yogurt works best.
- Butter can be substituted with ghee for a more traditional flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- If you prefer, you can add vegetables such as peas or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking.
