Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

When I think about comfort food, nothing quite compares to Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. This dish is like a warm hug after a long day. I can still remember the first time I made it for my family on a chilly winter evening. The aromas filled my home, and I could see their eyes light up as they walked through the door. It became an instant favorite, a recipe that turned into a family tradition. The creamy sauce, the tender pieces of chicken, and the fragrant spices all come together to create a dish that’s not just a meal, but an experience. Whether you serve it over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan, each bite feels like a celebration. It’s these simple moments—gathering around the table and sharing stories—that make food so special.

Ingredients Overview for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

When it comes to Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating the depth of flavor that makes this dish irresistible. The key players include succulent chicken thighs, fragrant spices, and creamy elements that meld beautifully over the slow cooking process. Each ingredient complements the others, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and rich. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 5 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a robust flavor that enhances the dish.
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated – Provides warmth and a bit of a kick.
• 16 oz tomato sauce – Forms the base of the delicious sauce.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Offers earthy tones and depth.
• 2 teaspoons garam masala – The star seasoning that gives it that authentic taste.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric – Gives a lovely golden color and health benefits.
• ½ teaspoon chili powder – Adjust to taste for heat.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing flavors.
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar or honey – Balances acidity.
• 2 lb chicken thighs – Tender and juicy, perfect for this dish.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes – Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream – Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro – For garnish and freshness.

Step by Step Guide for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Cooking Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is as enjoyable as eating it! Let’s dive into the steps to create this comforting dish. Ready your slow cooker, and let’s get started!

1. Start by preparing your ingredients. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. These two will form the aromatic base of your sauce. When you smell their fragrances, you know you’re on the right track.

2. In a large bowl, combine the ginger, garlic, tomato sauce, ground cumin, garam masala, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and sugar. Mix everything well until you have a harmonious blend of spices and flavors.

3. Next, add the chicken thighs to the bowl. Using your hands or a spoon, coat each thigh thoroughly in the sauce. This step is crucial because you want the chicken to soak up all that goodness.

4. Transfer the chicken and sauce mixture into the slow cooker. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to get all of that flavor in there.

5. Scatter the butter cubes over the top of the chicken. This will melt and blend into the sauce as it cooks, creating a rich and creamy texture.

6. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on HIGH for one and a half to two hours, or on LOW for four to six hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The aroma will be intoxicating!

7. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Let them cool slightly before shredding or cutting them into bite-sized pieces.

8. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and stir in the heavy cream. Use a whisk to combine everything until the sauce is beautifully creamy.

9. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh finish to your dish.

Things Worth Knowing

Ways to Customize

There are countless ways to put your own spin on Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. Here are some ideas!

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Portion it out into containers and freeze for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice for a complete meal.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some chopped spinach or peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
• Coconut Alternative: For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is an opportunity to elevate the meal experience. Here’s how you can do it:

• Pair with Basmati Rice: The fluffy grains of basmati rice soak up the creamy sauce perfectly, making it a classic combination.
• Serve with Naan: Warm naan bread is ideal for scooping up the butter chicken, adding a delightful texture to every bite.
• Garnish: Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
• Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings or even a cozy dinner date.
• Lunch Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day; it tastes even better!
• Seasonal Serving: Although it’s a winter dish, it can be enjoyed year-round, especially during gatherings.

FAQ

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and delicious flavors to your table. It’s not just a meal; it’s a chance to create lasting memories with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and watch it become a staple in your home as it has in mine. You’ll love the simplicity, the flavors, and the smiles it brings!

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is creamy, aromatic, and incredibly easy to make. This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings and impress your family or guests. Make it tonight and enjoy a taste of home!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 5 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger grated
• 16 oz tomato sauce or passata
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala click for recipe
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar or honey
• 2 lb chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into small cubes
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream double cream in the UK
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• 4-quart Slow Cooker

Method

 

1. To the slow cooker, add ginger, garlic, tomato sauce, spices, salt, and sugar. Give everything a good stir, then add the chicken thighs and coat them in the sauce. Scatter the butter all over the top, cover, and cook on HIGH for 90 minutes, or on LOW for 4-6 hours. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F with an instant-read thermometer. Remove the chicken and place on a cutting board to cool enough to be handled. Stir the heavy cream into the sauce, and whisk until the sauce is creamy. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the sauce. Serve with basmati rice and naan bread, garnish with fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro.

Notes

• Tip 1: I used a 4-quart Crockpot for this recipe. It’s a cheap Crockpot that I use when I make smaller amounts of food.
• Tip 2: Do not add water, as the chicken will produce enough liquid for the sauce. Adding liquid will make the sauce too thin.
• Tip 3: Tomato sauce can be substituted with Passata, or a can of plain tomatoes that are blended and sieved.
• Tip 4: If you don’t have fresh ginger available, you can use ½ teaspoon of ground ginger instead.
• Tip 5: This dish is medium spicy (heat), so if you’re feeding children, then I recommend that you leave the chili powder out.

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