Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
This slow cooker butter chicken is rich, creamy, and full of warm, aromatic spices. It’s a simplified version of the classic Indian dish, perfect for an easy, flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked basmati rice or naan (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the slow cooker:
Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker along with the diced onion, garlic, and ginger. - Add the spices:
In a bowl, mix together the garam masala, curry powder, cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat. - Add the liquids:
Pour the tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes) and plain yogurt over the chicken and stir to combine. Add the butter in small dollops on top of the mixture. - Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. - Finish with cream:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk to make the sauce rich and creamy. Let it heat through for the remaining cooking time. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice or with naan for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Enjoy this rich, creamy, and flavorful butter chicken made easy in the slow cooker!