BEST SLOW COOKER INDIAN BUTTER CHICKEN

Craving the rich, creamy flavors of Indian Butter Chicken but dreading the effort? Imagine tender, juicy chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices, all without spending hours in the kitchen. This Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe delivers authentic taste with minimal effort, promising a restaurant-quality meal your family will adore, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way!

Ingredients: Everything You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup plain yogurt (full-fat for best results)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (or cayenne pepper, adjust to taste)

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Serving Suggestions:

• Cooked basmati rice
• Naan bread

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, garam masala, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and chili powder.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor. I usually aim for at least 4 hours!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional, but Recommended!)

1. While this step is optional, searing the chicken adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
3. Sear the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through; it will finish cooking in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

1. In the same skillet (or the slow cooker if it has a browning function), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, garam masala, cumin powder, paprika, and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Combine and Slow Cook

1. Transfer the sauce to the slow cooker (if you haven’t already).
2. Add the seared chicken (or marinated chicken, if skipping the searing step) to the slow cooker, ensuring it is submerged in the sauce.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Stir in the heavy cream.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
4. Serve hot over cooked basmati rice with naan bread.

Tips and Tricks for Butter Chicken Perfection

Yogurt Marinade Essentials:

Don’t skimp on the yogurt marinade! It’s key to tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with flavor. Full-fat yogurt will give you the richest results, but you can use a lower-fat option if preferred. The lemon juice helps to break down the chicken fibers, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Spice Level Adjustments:

This recipe has a mild spice level, perfect for families. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper in the marinade or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away! So start small and adjust to your taste.

Dealing with a Watery Sauce:

Sometimes, slow cookers can produce excess liquid. If your sauce is too watery at the end, you have a few options: You can remove the chicken and simmer the sauce in a saucepan on the stovetop until it thickens. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce and cook for a few minutes until thickened. I find the stovetop method works best for maintaining the flavor profile.

Make it Ahead:

This Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prepping! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights!

Why Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a Game Changer

Let’s be honest, sometimes you just want a delicious, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where the slow cooker comes in! This Butter Chicken recipe is a game-changer because it allows you to enjoy authentic Indian flavors with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with rich, aromatic spices and creating a tender, juicy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it! No need to constantly monitor the stove. Just toss in the ingredients, turn it on, and come back to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. It’s also a great way to keep the kitchen cool, especially during the summer months.

Variations to Spice Things Up

While this recipe is amazing as is, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Here are a few variations to try:

• Vegetarian Butter “Chicken”: Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Coconut Milk: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. This will also add a subtle coconut flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in some chopped bell peppers, peas, or spinach during the last hour of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions: Beyond Rice and Naan

While basmati rice and naan bread are classic accompaniments to Butter Chicken, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this delicious dish! Consider serving it with:

• Quinoa: A healthy and protein-rich alternative to rice.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
• Roti: A type of Indian flatbread that’s similar to naan.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

You can also use leftover Butter Chicken in wraps, salads, or even as a filling for samosas!

Other Slow Cooker Recipes You’ll Love

If you love the ease and convenience of slow cooking, here are a few other recipes you might enjoy:

• Slow Cooker Pot Roast: A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
• Bbq Pulled Chicken Crockpot: Perfect for sandwiches, sliders, or topping salads.
• Slow Cooker Chicken Stew: A hearty and flavorful stew packed with vegetables and tender chicken.
• Crockpot Butter Chicken: Another tasty variation on this popular dish!
• Don’t forget to check out the quick and easy Butter Chicken recipe for when you’re short on time!

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Butter Chicken Recipe

I hope you enjoy this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe as much as I do! It’s a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices and adjust the recipe to your liking. With a little practice, you’ll be a Butter Chicken pro in no time. Happy cooking!