Butter chicken is a beloved Indian dish known for its rich, creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken pieces.
Using a slow cooker simplifies the process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you attend to other tasks.
This recipe delivers authentic taste with minimal hands-on time, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and soak up the rich spices without drying out.
- The combination of cream, tomatoes, and traditional Indian spices creates a perfectly balanced sauce.
- Using simple ingredients and a slow cooker makes this authentic dish accessible for home cooks.
Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Experience tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce with this easy slow cooker butter chicken recipe.
- Prep time
- 15 minutes
- Cook time
- 240 minutes
- Servings
- 6
- Yield
- 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 (14 oz/400 g) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) plain yogurt
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the base Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 more minute.
- Combine ingredients in slow cooker Transfer the cooked onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add chicken pieces, tomato sauce, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Slow cook the chicken Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until chicken is tender and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish the sauce About 30 minutes before serving, stir in butter, heavy cream, and yogurt. Mix well and continue cooking uncovered, if possible, to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Garnish and serve Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the butter chicken before serving. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.
Helpful Tips
- Make sure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety before serving.
- Adjust chili powder according to your preferred spice level.
- Using chicken thighs keeps the meat juicy and tender during slow cooking.
- For a richer flavor, gently brown the chicken pieces in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts may become dry when slow cooked for 4 hours. Check frequently and remove once cooked to 165°F (74°C).
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Can I freeze leftover butter chicken?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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