Introduction
Transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy, creamy butter chicken that’s surprisingly easy to make in your slow cooker! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and the whole family will adore it. Get ready for a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and delicious!
Why This Works
This recipe works because of its delightful balance of savory and creamy flavors. The slow cooker does all the work, creating incredibly tender chicken that melts in your mouth. It’s incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for even beginner cooks, and the cleanup is a breeze!
Key Ingredients
- 🍗 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 🧅 1 large onion, chopped
- 🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 🍅 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 🥛 1 cup heavy cream
- 🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 🌶️ 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 🌶️ 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🧂 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2️⃣ Place the chicken breasts on top of the onions and garlic.
3️⃣ In a medium bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, butter, curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
4️⃣ Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
5️⃣ Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
6️⃣ Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker. Stir to combine with the sauce.
7️⃣ Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve with rice or naan bread.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in some of the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Don’t overcook the chicken! Overcooked chicken will be dry.
Heat Control
The slow cooker maintains a gentle, even heat, ensuring the chicken cooks through without drying out. The low setting is ideal for tender, juicy chicken. If using the high setting, keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on creamy, tender textures, you can add a crunch element by serving it with toasted naan bread or a sprinkle of chopped nuts (like cashews or almonds) as a garnish.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For even faster cleanup, line your slow cooker with a slow cooker liner. Just discard the liner when finished!
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few chopped chili peppers to the sauce.
Storage Tips
Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This makes a wonderful gift! Package it in a pretty, insulated container and include some naan bread or rice for a complete meal. Add a handwritten recipe card for an extra special touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Mango Butter Chicken: Add 1 cup of diced mango to the sauce during the last hour of cooking.
🌟 Spicy Butter Chicken: Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
🌟 Creamy Coconut Butter Chicken: Substitute the heavy cream with 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk.
🌟 Lemon Herb Butter Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon, and a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Troubleshooting
- Chicken is dry: If your chicken is dry, you likely overcooked it. Reduce cooking time next time, and consider using bone-in chicken thighs for extra moisture.
- Sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce uncovered for 15-20 minutes after the chicken is cooked to thicken it.
- Sauce is too thick: Add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by a couple of hours.
- Can I make this in a regular pot on the stovetop? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Just be sure to simmer the chicken and sauce gently until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- What can I serve with this? This is delicious served with rice, naan bread, or roti. A side of raita (yogurt sauce) is also a great complement.
- Can I make it ahead of time? Yes! This recipe is great for make-ahead meals. Prepare it the day before and reheat it gently before serving.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Creamy Butter Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Share this recipe with your friends and family – enjoy!
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: Family Favorite in Minutes!
A rich and creamy butter chicken recipe that is easy to prepare in a slow cooker, perfect for busy families.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger on top of the chicken.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, heavy cream, and add the butter.
- Sprinkle the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Stir everything together to combine well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside rice or naan.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices for a few hours before cooking.
- Serve with basmati rice or naan to soak up the delicious sauce.