Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Indian Style)

If you’re looking for a delicious and hassle-free meal, look no further than this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Indian Style)! This recipe offers a rich, creamy, and aromatic dish that embodies the flavors of India right in your kitchen. Slow cooking not only infuses the chicken with the spices but also tenderizes it to perfection, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Serve it over fluffy basmati rice, and you have a restaurant-quality meal without any of the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Indian Style) is a fantastic dish for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to do all the heavy lifting. Simply marinate the chicken, sauté some onions, and combine everything in the slow cooker. In just a few hours, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.

Another reason to love this recipe is its adaptability. The spice levels can be adjusted to suit your taste, whether you prefer it mild or extra spicy. The creamy coconut milk and rich butter create a luxurious sauce that complements the tender chicken beautifully. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce friends and family to Indian cuisine, as it’s packed with flavor yet approachable for those who may be unfamiliar with more intense spice profiles.

Finally, the nutritional aspect is hard to ignore. This dish is protein-rich due to the chicken and has healthy fats from the butter and coconut milk. Pair it with basmati rice, and you have a well-rounded meal that will keep you satisfied. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a hearty dinner, this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a must-try!

Why You Should Try This Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with homemade butter chicken. This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Indian Style) elevates the traditional recipe by simplifying the cooking process while maintaining the authentic flavors. Here are a few compelling reasons to give it a try:

• Authentic Indian Flavors: The combination of spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric creates a depth of flavor that transports you straight to an Indian kitchen.
• Healthy Ingredients: With wholesome ingredients such as boneless chicken thighs, coconut milk, and yogurt, you can feel good about what you’re serving your family.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for lunchboxes or quick dinners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with naan, or even in a wrap for a fusion twist. Its versatility makes it a great option for various meals.
• Great for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this flavorful dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare, but in reality, takes minimal effort.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To make this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Indian Style), you will need the following ingredients:

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Cooked basmati rice, for serving

Recommended Utensils

• Large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken
• Skillet for sautéing
• Slow cooker (at least 6-quart capacity)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon for mixing
• Two forks for shredding chicken
• Serving dish for presentation

Having the right tools makes all the difference in the kitchen. A sharp knife for chopping onions and a sturdy cutting board will make prep work easier. A good slow cooker will ensure even cooking and a rich sauce.

Detailed Recipe Steps

Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Indian Style) that will have everyone coming back for seconds:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the plain yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are blended.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. This step is crucial for tender, flavorful chicken.
3. Sauté the Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and golden, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the dish by adding a sweet and savory base.
4. Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed onions to the slow cooker. Add the marinated chicken thighs, tomato sauce, and coconut milk. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the chicken is well submerged in the sauce.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully.
6. Finish the Sauce: Once cooked, shred the chicken gently with two forks, mixing it into the sauce. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted and well combined. This final step adds richness to the sauce.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over cooked basmati rice. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish!

**Practical Tips:** For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.

FAQs

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Indian Style) is a delightful recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of India into your home effortlessly. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. We encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments section below and let us know how you enjoyed this dish. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and try it out for your next gathering!

For more delicious recipes, check out Pinterest and explore the world of flavors!

For similar recipes, you might enjoy:

• Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Pineapple Glaze
• Tender Chicken Strips with Warm Maple Garlic Glaze
• Buttery Cajun Fish Bites with Tangy Herb Dip
• Spicy Cajun Chicken Strips with Ranch Dressing
• Crispy Beef Cubes with Smoky Chili Lime Dip
• Sweet Teriyaki Chicken Bites with Dreamy Coconut Drizzle
• Honey Soy Beef Cubes with Sesame Ginger Sauce

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Indian Style)

A rich and creamy slow-cooked Indian butter chicken that is perfect for serving over basmati rice.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup Plain yogurt
• 1 Onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons Garam masala
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder Adjust to taste
• 15 oz Tomato sauce 1 can
• 1 cup Coconut milk
• 4 tablespoons Butter
• to taste Salt
• to taste Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• as needed Cooked basmati rice, for serving

Instructions

 

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the plain yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
• Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
• In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until the onions are translucent and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
• Transfer the sautéed onions to the slow cooker. Add the marinated chicken thighs, tomato sauce, and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
• Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
• Once cooked, shred the chicken gently with two forks, mixing it into the sauce. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted and well combined.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over cooked basmati rice.

Notes

For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder. This dish pairs well with naan bread as well.

Keyword butter chicken, chicken, Curry, slow cooker