Very few dishes can claim the universal love that butter chicken enjoys. This slow cooker version brings all the creamy, spicy goodness of the classic dish to your table with minimal fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it’s a recipe that promises to deliver big flavors with little effort.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, melding the spices and tenderizing the chicken to perfection.
- Using full-fat coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative keeps the dish creamy without compromising on flavor.
- The combination of garam masala, turmeric, and cumin offers a warm, aromatic base that’s unmistakably butter chicken.
- Finishing with a touch of butter and cream adds that signature richness that makes this dish irresistible.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowl
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors. Season lightly with salt to begin the flavor layering process.
Step 2: Mix Your Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, tomato paste, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, garlic, and ginger. Whisk until smooth. This vibrant sauce is the heart of your butter chicken, so make sure it’s well blended.
Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
Add the chicken pieces to the slow cooker, then pour the sauce over them, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and set to cook on low for 6 hours. The slow cooking process is key to tender chicken and deep flavors.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Cream
Once the cooking time is up, stir in the butter and heavy cream. This step adds the luxurious richness butter chicken is known for. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your butter chicken is now ready to serve. Pair it with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Tips and Tricks
For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. For a spicier kick, add a diced chili pepper or a teaspoon of chili powder to the sauce mix.
Recipe Variations
- Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a leaner option, though thighs are recommended for their juiciness.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of coconut milk for a tangier version of the sauce.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach during the last hour of cooking for a one-pot meal.
- For a vegan version, use chickpeas instead of chicken and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! The recipe already uses coconut milk instead of traditional cream, and you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative to keep it dairy-free.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
If your sauce is thinner than you’d like, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to thicken.
Can I freeze leftover butter chicken?
Yes, butter chicken freezes beautifully. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Summary
This slow cooker butter chicken is a foolproof way to bring the flavors of your favorite Indian restaurant into your home. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
