Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Introduction

Discovering Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Butter chicken is a classic dish beloved by many for its creamy and flavorful profile. This recipe for slow cooker butter chicken adds convenience to this traditional dish, allowing you to create a rich and aromatic curry with minimal effort. Packed with spices and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Chicken and Sauce

– Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, 2 lbs
– Onion, finely diced, 1 medium
– Garlic cloves, minced, 3 pieces
– Ginger, grated, 1 tablespoon
– Tomato paste, 2 tablespoons
– Canned tomato puree or crushed tomatoes, 1 cup

Spices

– Garam masala, 1 tablespoon
– Turmeric, 1 teaspoon
– Cumin, 1 teaspoon
– Paprika, 1 teaspoon
– Ground coriander, 1 teaspoon
– Cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon (optional, adjust for spice level)
– Salt, 1 teaspoon

Liquids and Creaminess

– Full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream, 1 cup
– Chicken broth or water, 1/2 cup

Finish

– Butter, 2 tablespoons
– Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Prep Time

How to Prepare the Ingredients for the Slow Cooker

Preparing this slow cooker butter chicken is easy and straightforward. You’ll start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion, mince garlic, grate fresh ginger, and measure the fragrant spices. Prepare the chicken by trimming any excess fat if needed, ensuring the pieces are bite-sized and easy to cook evenly.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cooking to Perfection

Once everything is prepped, the cooking process involves layering the ingredients in the slow cooker. This recipe typically cooks on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, making it a great option to set in the morning and enjoy at dinnertime. The total time includes preparation and slow cooking, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Yield

This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people, making it a family-friendly meal or a perfect option for leftovers. Pair it with basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and finely slice the onion, crush the garlic, and grate the ginger. Measure out the required spices, tomato paste, and yogurt beforehand to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pan, heat a drizzle of oil on medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until softened and slightly golden. Next, add the garlic and ginger, stir frequently, and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder over the onion mixture, stirring constantly to toast the spices lightly. Add the tomato paste and mix thoroughly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 4: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

Carefully transfer the onion, spice, and tomato paste mixture to the slow cooker. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are coated in the spice mixture.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream or coconut milk, and yogurt to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine, ensuring the chicken is fully immersed in the sauce.

Step 6: Cook in the Slow Cooker

Set the slow cooker to low heat and allow it to cook for 6-8 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Alternatively, if time is limited, cook on high heat for 3-4 hours.

Step 7: Finish and Adjust Seasoning

Once the chicken is cooked, stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the sauce is combined and creamy. Season with salt as needed and adjust spice levels by adding chili powder, if desired.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the butter chicken over a bed of steamed rice, with fresh naan bread, or alongside a simple green salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor if desired.

Notes

Cooking the Onions

Taking the time to sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger before transferring them to the slow cooker enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Choosing Chicken

Chicken thighs are preferred for this dish as they stay tender and juicy during slow cooking, but chicken breasts can be substituted if needed.

Dairy-Free Option

To make this recipe dairy-free, replace yogurt and heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.

Adjusting Spice Levels

The spice level of the dish can be tailored to your preference by adding or reducing the amount of chili powder used.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally, to ensure even heating.

Freezing Instructions

This dish freezes well. Allow the butter chicken to cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Cook Techniques

Use the Right Cut of Chicken

Chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe, as they remain tender and juicy during slow cooking. Chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily.

Brown the Chicken Before Slow Cooking

For added flavor, browning the chicken in a pan before placing it in the slow cooker is a great technique. This creates a deeper, more robust taste.

Sauté the Aromatics

Cooking the onion, garlic, and ginger in advance helps to develop their flavors. You can do this on the stovetop before adding everything to the slow cooker.

Simmer for an Extended Time

Slow cooking for 4 hours on high or up to 8 hours on low allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Finish With Heavy Cream

Adding heavy cream at the very end balances the flavors and creates the signature creamy texture of butter chicken.

Adjust Seasoning to Taste

Once the cooking process is done, taste the butter chicken and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or additional spices.

Serve with Complementary Sides

Rice or naan bread pairs perfectly with slow cooker butter chicken. Ensure your sides are ready to serve alongside the dish.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may not be as tender and juicy as chicken thighs.

Do I have to brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker?

While it’s not mandatory, browning the chicken before slow cooking adds depth and enhances the flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or dairy-free yogurt as a substitute for heavy cream.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Let the butter chicken cool completely, portion it into airtight containers, and freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper to adjust the spice level to your preference.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If you find the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes after removing the chicken or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

Do I need to sauté the aromatics before slow cooking?

While it’s not required, sautéing the aromatics beforehand enhances their flavors and adds depth to the dish.

What is the best side dish for butter chicken?

Steamed rice or naan bread are the most common and perfect sides to soak up the rich, creamy sauce.

Conclusion

This slow cooker butter chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that is incredibly easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner option and makes fantastic leftovers. The combination of tender chicken and a spiced tomato-cream sauce creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re new to butter chicken or it’s a favorite in your household, this recipe is sure to impress with its warmth and depth of flavor.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Slow Cooker Chicken Curry

If you enjoyed the slow cooker butter chicken, you might love trying out a classic slow cooker chicken curry. With simple ingredients and aromatic spices, this dish makes a perfect counterpart to butter chicken.

Homemade Garlic Naan

Pair your butter chicken with homemade garlic naan for a deliciously authentic meal. The soft and fluffy bread is ideal for scooping up the creamy sauce.

Vegetable Curry

Add a side of vegetable curry to complement your butter chicken. This vibrant, plant-based option brings color and nutrition to your table.

Basmati Rice Pilaf

Serve your butter chicken alongside a fragrant basmati rice pilaf made with a touch of saffron, cardamom, and cloves for a complete meal experience.

Mango Lassi

Finish your meal with a refreshing mango lassi. This creamy and fruity drink is the perfect sweet companion to balance the bold spices of butter chicken.

Chana Masala

Consider incorporating chana masala as a vegetarian addition to your menu. The hearty chickpea dish pairs wonderfully with the creamy butter chicken.

Spinach Paneer

Add a side of spinach paneer to bring a green, protein-rich option to your table. Its earthy flavor complements butter chicken beautifully.