Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of India straight to your table. This amazing recipe is designed for those who crave rich, buttery curry infused with spices. With the ease of using a slow cooker, you can create a meal that impresses without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma of spices and sauce ready to serve—a perfect comfort dish that your family and friends will rave about.
If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy restaurant-quality Indian food without the fuss, this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is for you. The combination of tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and warm spices will transport you to the bustling streets of Delhi. This recipe makes cooking easy and enjoyable, ensuring you spend less time at the stove and more time with your loved ones. Join us as we explore the intricacies of this wonderful dish, including why it’s a standout, preparation and cooking times, a complete list of ingredients, detailed instructions, and tips for serving.
Let’s dive into what makes Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken an essential recipe for your dinner repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is a fantastic dish that captures the heart of Indian cuisine. Here are several reasons why this recipe will become a favorite in your household:
1. Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does all the work. Simply add the ingredients and let it simmer to perfection.
2. Rich and Creamy Flavor – The harmonious blend of spices, butter, and cream creates an incredibly rewarding dish.
3. Perfectly Tender Chicken – Slow cooking ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy, absorbing all the flavors.
4. Kid-Friendly – The mild spices make it suitable for children, while still being delicious for adults.
5. Flexible Ingredients – You can customize the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or available pantry items.
6. Impressive Presentation – Serve it over rice or with naan for a visually stunning and appetizing meal.
With these compelling features, it’s easy to see why Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is so beloved. Each bite is filled with warmth and richness that brings comfort and satisfaction after a long day.

Preparation and Cooking Time

When preparing Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken, time management is key. Here’s a breakdown of the time required to make this incredible dish:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-5 hours on high
– Total Time: Approximately 6-8 hours and 15 minutes
These time estimates ensure you can plan your day effectively, allowing you to savor this flavorful meal without worry.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated or minced
– 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons garam masala
– 1 tablespoon ground coriander
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is straightforward if you follow these steps:
1. Prep Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and trimming any excess fat.
2. Blend Spices: In a large mixing bowl, combine the garam masala, coriander, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
3. Sauté Onions: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, spices, and the remaining butter.
6. Add Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces in the slow cooker until they are well coated with the sauce.
7. Simmer: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-5 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
8. Stir in Cream: Once cooked, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and let it warm through for another 15 minutes.
9. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the spices if needed, adding more salt or cayenne for heat.
10. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
These easy-to-follow steps ensure your dish turns out deliciously creamy and rich.

How to Serve

To make the most of your Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Pair with Rice: Serve over fluffy basmati or jasmine rice to soak up the rich sauce.
2. Naan Bread: Include warm, soft naan bread to scoop up the chicken and sauce easily.
3. Garnish with Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only enhances flavor but adds a vibrant touch.
4. Side Dishes: Offer sides like a fresh salad or raita to provide a refreshing contrast to the curry.
5. Beverage Pairing: Consider serving with a lassi or a light Indian beer for a complete dining experience.
By thoughtfully examining how to serve this amazing dish, you enhance the overall enjoyment for your guests and family. Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Spices: The quality of spices can greatly affect the flavors. Use freshly ground spices whenever possible for a more aromatic dish.
– Adjust Cream to Taste: For a lighter dish, try using less cream or coconut milk. For a richer flavor, add more.
– Marinate Chicken: For those who have more time, marinating the chicken overnight in yogurt and spices can enhance the flavor even further.
– Garnish Creatively: Aside from cilantro, you can garnish with sliced almonds or cashews for extra texture and visual appeal.

Recipe Variation

Don’t hesitate to put your spin on this fantastic dish! Here are some ideas to try out:
1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian variant.
2. Spicy Twist: If you prefer a kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped green chilies.
3. Coconut Flavor: For a distinct flavor, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream to achieve a tropical essence.
4. Slow Cooker Alternatives: Try cooking this dish in a stovetop pressure cooker to save time while achieving the same delicious flavors.

Freezing and Storage

– Short-term Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
– Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment

To make Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken, you will need a few essential kitchen tools:
– Slow Cooker: A 6 or 7-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe.
– Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping chicken and vegetables.
– Mixing Bowl: For blending spices and storing ingredients before cooking.
– Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to balancing flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but ensure not to overcook them as they can dry out.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Certainly! Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and ensure your butter is replaced with a vegan alternative.
What if I don’t have garam masala?
You can make a quick homemade version using equal parts cumin, coriander, and ginger, or purchase it at any grocery store.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be fork-tender and easily shred when done. Check with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that delights the senses. Its rich flavors, tender chicken, and creamy sauce make it a go-to dish for any occasion. This recipe is designed to be as effortless as it is delicious, allowing you to enjoy authentic Indian flavors from the comfort of your home. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare for a comforting feast that will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Print