Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Introduction: Butter Chicken Made in the Slow Cooker

The Origins of Butter Chicken

Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular Indian dish that originated in Northern India. It is known for its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and tender chicken pieces. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor, butter chicken has been adapted to suit various cooking methods, including the slow cooker, making it accessible for home cooks around the world.

This dish was created by Kundan Lal Gujral, the founder of the famous Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi, in the 1950s. The idea was to make use of leftover chicken by immersing it in a creamy tomato sauce, which added moisture and flavor. Today, butter chicken is beloved globally, gracing the menus of Indian restaurants everywhere.

Why Use a Slow Cooker?

The slow cooker is a modern kitchen marvel, especially beneficial for busy families. It allows you to prepare meals with minimal active cooking time, freeing you to focus on other tasks. The slow cooking process helps in tenderizing the chicken, infusing it with the rich flavors of the sauce.

Using a slow cooker for butter chicken ensures the chicken remains juicy and the spices meld beautifully, creating a well-rounded, flavorful dish. It’s the perfect appliance for those who want to enjoy a warm, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients

To prepare a delicious slow cooker butter chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

For more slow cooker chicken ideas, check out our Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs recipe.

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to vary your recipe, consider these substitutions:

• Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
• Replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition.

Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. If you like it spicier, increase the cayenne pepper, or reduce it for a milder version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken pieces in Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Cooking in the Slow Cooker

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onions are translucent. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.

Add the marinated chicken and tomato sauce to the slow cooker. Stir everything well to combine. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

For more slow cooker inspiration, consider trying this Slow Cooker Garlic Ranch Chicken.

Finishing Touches

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low heat. This will thicken the sauce and enhance its creaminess.

Adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or spices to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Pro Tips

• Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Sauté First: Sautéing the onions and spices before slow cooking enhances the depth of flavor.
• Herb Boost: Add fresh herbs like cilantro just before serving to brighten the dish.
• Freezer Friendly: This dish freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.

For storage tips, check out our Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken.

One of the key aspects to making this dish shine is allowing the spices to bloom by sautéing them with onions and garlic. This step, although optional, significantly elevates the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Sides

Butter chicken pairs beautifully with basmati rice or naan bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a simple cucumber salad.

If you’re in the mood for pasta, try a fusion meal with Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Pasta.

Beverage Pairings

Complement your butter chicken with a refreshing glass of Mango Lassi or a chilled Indian beer. For non-alcoholic options, iced tea or simple lemon water work well to balance the rich flavors.

For more meal ideas, explore our Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken.

Nutritional Information

Calorie Count and Macronutrients

Each serving of this slow cooker butter chicken contains approximately 320 calories. It provides a balanced macronutrient profile with carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to make a satisfying meal.

With its rich, creamy texture and robust flavor, this dish is not only delicious but also nourishing. Adjust portion sizes according to your dietary needs and health goals.

Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

HomeOChicken Editorial

A rich and creamy butter chicken made effortlessly in the slow cooker, perfect for busy families and lovers of Indian cuisine.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Servings 8 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• 1 slow cooker 6-quart recommended
• 1 skillet for sautéing

Ingredients

  

Marinade

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste

Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large onion finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
• 1 can 15 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream

Garnish

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Combine chicken pieces with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
• In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onions are translucent and aromatic.
• Transfer the sautéed onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add marinated chicken and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
• Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4 hours. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and tender.
• Stir in heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low to thicken the sauce.

Serving

• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Storage

• Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

Pro Tips: Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor. Sauté onions and spices for enhanced aroma. Add fresh cilantro before serving for a pop of freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. Chicken breasts can replace thighs for a leaner meal.
How to Serve: Pair with basmati rice or naan for a complete meal. Add a side salad for a fresh touch.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage up to 3 months.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the marinade and sauce ingredients ahead of time to reduce prep on cooking day.

Keyword creamy butter chicken, crockpot chicken dinner, slow cooker butter chicken

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