Effortless Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken for Dinner

© Original Recipe By Magic Spoon Recipes ©

Effortless Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken for Dinner 🍛🧈🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a rich, flavorful chicken curry that practically makes itself, look no further than this slow cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe. Known for its creamy tomato sauce and tender pieces of chicken, this butter chicken dish is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Using your slow cooker, you can achieve authentic flavors with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for a delicious and stress-free meal. This flavorful chicken curry combines fragrant spices, butter, and cream to deliver an unforgettable taste experience that will delight your family and friends.

2. Ingredients for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-step Instructions for Making Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Preparing the Chicken and Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, paprika, cayenne, coriander, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Cooking the Base

Transfer the marinated chicken to the slow cooker. Pour in the tomato sauce and add the chopped onion. Drizzle the melted butter over the mixture, ensuring even distribution.

Slow Cooking the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully.

Finishing Touches

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Adjust the salt and spice levels as needed. For a richer flavor, you can add a knob of butter or a splash of cream.

Serving the Butter Chicken

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. For an extra touch of flavor, see how these side dishes elevate the experience: Creamy Parmesan Spinach & Mushroom Pasta.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

Allow the leftover butter chicken to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months for longer preservation. To reheat, microwave until heated through or warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain creamy texture.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Flavorful Chicken Curry

Serve this Indian butter chicken over fluffy basmati rice or with freshly baked naan bread for an authentic experience. For added flavor, sprinkle extra cilantro or serve with a side of roasted vegetables. Explore complementary dishes like chewy chocolate chip cookies for dessert or a fresh salad to balance your meal.

6. FAQs About Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are even more flavorful and tender. They hold up better during slow cooking and add a richer taste to your flavorful chicken curry.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep or freezing?

Absolutely! The flavors improve after a day or two, making it perfect for meal prep. Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute coconut cream or cashew cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free butter replacements if needed.

How long does it take to prepare this butter chicken?

The prep time is about 15-20 minutes, plus marination time. It cooks in approximately 6-8 hours in the slow cooker, so total time is around 8-10 hours, including marination.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for this Recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics – Perfect for preparing crispy sides or reheating leftovers quickly. It also helps in making healthier versions of fried dishes to go alongside your butter chicken.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ideal for cooking rice, sautéing vegetables, or making traditional Indian side dishes with ease.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – Great for grilling or air frying extras to serve with your flavorful chicken curry.

8. Conclusion

This effortless slow cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe is your ticket to a deeply flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dinner with minimal fuss. Using your slow cooker allows the spices and flavors to develop slowly, resulting in tender chicken and a rich sauce that’s perfect for pairing with rice or naan. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or just love authentic Indian dishes, this recipe will become a household favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with different side dishes and garnishes to make your meal truly special!

9. Final Tips & Recommendations

For an even more authentic experience, use fresh ginger and spices whenever possible. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, and add a dash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end for a touch of brightness. Enjoy your delicious, homemade butter chicken and impress everyone with your culinary skills!

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