If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to a kitchen filled with the cozy aromas of Indian spices blending seamlessly with creamy richness, then this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is your new best friend. It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken thighs bathed in a luscious, spiced tomato and coconut milk sauce, slow-cooked to perfection so every bite bursts with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned curry lover or just starting to explore Indian-inspired dishes, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a comforting, crowd-pleasing classic that feels special any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is a joy because each one plays a vital role in creating that depth of flavor and silky texture we all crave in a good curry. From the aromatic spices to the creaminess of coconut milk or heavy cream, every item is simple yet essential.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These stay juicy and tender throughout the slow cooking process, soaking up all the delicious spices.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger, building the recipe’s flavor foundation.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and body to the rich sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, pungent aroma that awakens the palate.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Infuses subtle spice and brightness.
- 1 tablespoon garam masala: The key spice blend that gives butter chicken its distinctive Indian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Earthy and nutty, balancing the heat.
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric: Provides a gorgeous golden color and mild warmth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds depth and a hint of smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: For just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the complex flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for a subtle kick.
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that thickens and enriches the sauce.
- 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk or 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the curry its signature creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Added near the end for tanginess and silkiness.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Melts in at the finish for that luscious, velvety feel.
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish: Brightens the final dish with fresh herbaceous notes.
- Cooked basmati rice or naan for serving: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of this glorious sauce.
How to Make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Build Your Flavor Base
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until it turns soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for just another minute to release their fragrant oils without burning. Next, sprinkle in garam masala, cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir constantly for about a minute until the spices toast and fill your kitchen with their irresistible scent—this is where the magic begins.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer your onion-spice mixture straight into the slow cooker. Add the chicken chunks, tomato paste, and your choice of coconut milk or heavy cream. Give everything a good stir so each piece of chicken gets coated in that aromatic sauce. This slow and steady layering of flavors guarantees tenderness and richness that you just can’t rush.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time. The chicken will become wonderfully tender, while the sauce thickens and deepens in flavor. Patience at this stage reaps big rewards—you’ll notice the transformation from simple ingredients to a soul-soothing curry.
Step 4: Finish with Creaminess and Butter
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the Greek yogurt or sour cream along with the butter. This step adds a luscious creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the spices perfectly. Taste and adjust salt or spice levels as needed, making this dish your very own masterpiece.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your slow cooker butter chicken with a scattering of fresh cilantro right before serving. The vibrant green not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh herbal note that perfectly complements the richness of the curry sauce. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top can also lift the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This curry shines when paired with fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up every bit of the creamy sauce. Alternatively, serve it alongside warm naan bread for scooping and savoring every mouthful. For a lighter meal, a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad balances the richness delightfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe in individual mini bowls garnished with cilantro and a dollop of yogurt for an elegant touch. Layer the curry over cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist, or turn it into a butter chicken wrap with some fresh greens and flatbread—versatility is part of the fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 4 days, giving you quick and tasty meals later in the week. The flavors often deepen overnight, so leftovers can be even better than the first day.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe also freezes wonderfully. Portion the curry into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-close bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or water can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much in the fridge. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the chicken tender and sauce smooth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier and more tender in slow cooking, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid drying out the chicken.
Is there a substitute for garam masala?
Garam masala is a unique spice blend, but if you don’t have it on hand, a mix of ground coriander, cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon can work in a pinch. However, for the authentic flavor, it’s worth picking up a pre-made blend.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! By opting for coconut milk instead of heavy cream and using dairy-free yogurt alternatives, you can easily enjoy a dairy-free version of this butter chicken without sacrificing creaminess and flavor.
How spicy is this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe?
This recipe has a gentle warmth from chili powder, but it’s not overly spicy. You can always adjust the amount of chili powder or add fresh chili peppers if you prefer a hotter curry.
Can I prepare the spices and sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the onion, garlic, ginger, and spice mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, just add the chicken and liquids to the slow cooker. This saves time on busy days.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorite comfort meals. It’s effortless to prepare, yet delivers big, bold flavors that feel truly special. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this creamy, spiced dish is pure joy in every spoonful. Give it a try and watch how it transforms your routine into a delicious celebration of Indian-inspired flavors!
Print
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken recipe is a hearty and flavorful Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it requires minimal prep and delivers maximum taste with the ease of slow cooking.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into large chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk or 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Garnish and Serving
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked basmati rice or naan for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in garam masala, ground cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture for another minute to let the spices bloom.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer this onion and spice mixture to the slow cooker. Add the chicken chunks, tomato paste, and full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream. Stir everything to combine well.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook the mixture on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and infused with the spice flavors.
- Finish with Yogurt and Butter: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and butter to enrich the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding additional salt or spices if needed.
- Serve: Serve the buttery chicken hot over cooked basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Notes
- Chicken thighs remain juicy and flavorful, but you can substitute chicken breasts if preferred.
- For a creamier, richer sauce, opt for heavy cream instead of coconut milk.
- This dish freezes well and is ideal for meal prep—simply portion and freeze for easy future meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
