Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
An easy and flavorful slow cooker version of the beloved Indian dish, featuring tender chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. Just dump everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic!
Equipment
- Slow cooker 6-quart or larger
- Knife To cut chicken and prep ingredients
- Mixing spoon To stir ingredients
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 15 oz Tomato sauce
- 6 oz Tomato paste
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 0.5 cup Butter, cubed
- 1 large Onion, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp Garam masala
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric
- 0.25 tsp Cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread (for serving)
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, tomato sauce, tomato paste, onion, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir until chicken is evenly coated with the sauce and spices.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- During the last 30 minutes, stir in heavy cream and butter. Let the butter melt and the sauce thicken slightly.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve over rice or with naan.
Notes
Marinate the chicken in yogurt before cooking for extra tenderness. Add vegetables like peas or cauliflower for more nutrition. Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version. Adjust spices to taste for milder or spicier results.