When I think of comfort food, Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is one of the first dishes that comes to mind. This recipe brings back memories of cozy evenings spent with family, gathered around the table enjoying a delicious meal. The aroma of spices fills the air as the chicken cooks slowly, infusing each piece with rich flavors. You don’t have to be a culinary expert to make this dish; it’s incredibly simple. Picture the tender chunks of chicken smothered in a creamy sauce, served over fluffy rice and topped with fresh cilantro. It’s a dish that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
34 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
26 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker, Chef’s Knife, Skillet, Wooden Spoon

Why Try This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

1. It’s Incredibly Flavorful

The blend of spices in Slow Cooker Butter Chicken creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Ingredients like garam masala and cumin infuse the dish with warmth and depth, while the creamy coconut adds a luxurious finish. Every bite feels like a hug.

2. Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors only get better as it sits, making it an excellent choice for busy nights when you want something delicious without much effort.

3. Versatile Ingredients

The ingredients in this recipe are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily switch out the chicken for other proteins or even make it vegetarian with chickpeas. This adaptability means you can tailor it to your family’s preferences.

4. Simple Preparation

With just a few steps, you can create a stunning meal. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones. Just toss everything in, set it, and forget it until dinner time!

5. Kid-Friendly

This dish is a hit with kids! The mild flavors and creamy texture are appealing to even the pickiest eaters. Serve it with rice or naan, and you have a meal that everyone will love, making family dinners a breeze.

6. Great for Entertaining

Planning a gathering? Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is an impressive dish to serve to guests. It’s easy to prepare in advance, and you can keep it warm in the slow cooker while you entertain. Pair it with a fresh salad or some naan, and your guests will be raving about your culinary skills!

What’s In This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

In this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken recipe, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the rich and creamy sauce. The hearty combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and luscious coconut cream makes this dish a true delight. The key players, such as chicken and coconut cream, work harmoniously to bring comfort to your table.

1 tablespoon olive oil: This is used to sauté the onion and add a rich base flavor to the dish.
1 yellow onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the sauce.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
1 inch fresh ginger, minced (about 1 tablespoon): Provides a warm, zesty flavor that complements the spices.
1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce: Forms the base of the sauce, adding acidity and sweetness.
1 teaspoon garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that gives this dish its signature flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness and warmth to the dish.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (use less for a mild version): Provides just the right kick of heat.
1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, absorbing all the wonderful flavors as it cooks.
1 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
1/2 cup coconut cream (the solid part in a can of coconut milk): Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste (no salt added): Thickens the sauce and adds depth of flavor.
Fresh cilantro, for garnish: A final touch for freshness and color.

Cooking Instructions for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Cooking Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a straightforward and enjoyable process. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. Follow these directions, and soon you’ll be savoring every bite.

Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough to use. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté until it softens, about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the onion becoming translucent and fragrant.
Next, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir briefly for about 1 minute, just until the aroma fills your kitchen. This step is essential for building a flavorful base for your dish.
Transfer the sautéed mixture to the bottom of your slow cooker. You want to create a cozy layer for the other ingredients. Pour in the tomato sauce, followed by the garam masala, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper if you’re up for some heat. Stir everything well to combine the spices with the sauce.
Now, place the boneless skinless chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Sprinkle a generous amount of fine sea salt over each piece. This will help season the chicken as it cooks and absorbs the flavors.
Secure the lid on the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 3 to 6 hours or high for 1.5 to 2.5 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker. Aim for a final internal temperature of 165ºF for the chicken.
Once the chicken is cooked through, use tongs to carefully transfer it to a cutting board. Shred the chicken using two forks, pulling the meat apart until it’s in bite-sized pieces. This step allows the chicken to soak up more of that delicious sauce.
Back to the slow cooker! Add in the coconut cream and tomato paste. Stir them well until the sauce is smooth and thick. You want to ensure there are no clumps left behind; it should be creamy and inviting.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it into the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or freshly ground black pepper to taste, making it perfect for your palate.
To serve, ladle the Slow Cooker Butter Chicken over cooked rice, and top with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Enjoy the comforting meal that you’ve just created!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Tip: Ensure your slow cooker is set to the correct temperature for best results, as different models may vary.
Flavor Boost: Letting the dish sit for an additional hour will deepen the flavors even more.
Ingredient Freshness: Always use fresh spices for the best aroma and flavor in your cooking.
Serving Size: Keep in mind that the serving size may vary based on personal appetites; rice is a great accompaniment.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many ways to put your own spin on Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. Here are some exciting ideas to consider:

Storage: Let leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Portion it into smaller containers, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Pairing: Serve it with warm naan or over fluffy rice. A side of sautéed greens can also complement the flavors nicely.
Vegetarian Twist: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. They absorb the sauce beautifully!
Spicy Version: Add more cayenne pepper or a fresh chili for an extra kick of heat.

Perfect Matches for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Serving Slow Cooker Butter Chicken can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Warm Naan: Fresh naan is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce. It’s a must-have!
Fluffy Rice: Basmati rice or jasmine rice is ideal for soaking up the rich flavors of the dish.
Side Salad: A light cucumber and tomato salad can add freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the chicken.
Special Occasion: This dish is excellent for dinner parties or holiday gatherings, impressing your guests effortlessly.
Quick Lunch: Leftover Slow Cooker Butter Chicken makes for a satisfying lunch, paired with rice or in a wrap.
Seasonal Touch: In the fall, consider serving with roasted vegetables to complement the spices.

FAQ

Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs for this recipe! In fact, chicken thighs tend to be more forgiving in terms of moisture and flavor. They hold up well in the slow cooker and can withstand longer cooking times without drying out. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, but they will still turn out delicious!

There are many great options to serve alongside Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. Fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread are traditional choices that complement the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also include a fresh salad, some roasted vegetables, or even a side of steamed broccoli for added nutrition and color. The key is to balance the richness of the dish with something light and fresh.

Absolutely! Slow Cooker Butter Chicken freezes very well. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This makes for an easy and delicious meal later on!

The spice level of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken can be adjusted according to your preference. The cayenne pepper adds a kick, but you can easily reduce the amount or omit it altogether for a milder flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider increasing the cayenne or adding some fresh chili. The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize it to suit your taste!

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is truly a special dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. It’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!