Name: Easy Crockpot Butter Chicken: A Weeknight Wonder!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488707H41M25S
Total time: PT-488707H41M25S
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks; 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or heavy cream; 4 tablespoons butter; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Easy Crockpot Butter Chicken: A Weeknight Wonder! 🍗🧈✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than this Crockpot Butter Chicken recipe. This simple slow cooker butter chicken is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser and a fantastic addition to your collection of easy crockpot recipes.

2. Ingredients for Crockpot Butter Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or heavy cream
4 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Crockpot Butter Chicken

Preparation of Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients and chop the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cut the chicken into manageable chunks for easier cooking and serving.

Sauté Aromatics (Optional)

If you prefer a more flavorful base, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger in a skillet with a tablespoon of butter until fragrant and translucent. This step is optional but adds depth to the dish.

Layering the Crockpot

In your Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker, add the chicken pieces, tomato sauce, and pre-cooked aromatics if you sautéed them. Add the spices, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle the remaining butter over the top.

Cooking Time

Cover and cook on low for about 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken will become tender and absorb the rich flavors during this time.

Finishing Touches

Stir in the Greek yogurt or heavy cream towards the end of cooking to add creaminess. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.

4. Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Butter Chicken

If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow it to reduce slightly.
For extra flavor, add a splash of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Adjust the spice levels according to your taste; increase chili powder for heat or omit for milder flavor.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. This easy crockpot butter chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy consistency.

6. Serving Suggestions

This Crockpot Butter Chicken is perfect served over fluffy basmati rice, naan bread, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad for a balanced meal. Explore more quick dinners like this easy hamburger hashbrown casserole for diverse weeknight options.

7. FAQs about Crockpot Butter Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are more flavorful and remain juicier after slow cooking. Just adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and reheats nicely, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weekdays.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the Greek yogurt or heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a dairy-free version.

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Prep time is approximately 10-15 minutes, with slow cooking taking about 4-6 hours, making it an easy weeknight meal.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Upgrade your cooking experience with these handy tools! The Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker makes it effortless to prepare this dish in advance and set it to cook while you’re busy with other tasks. For chopping and preparing ingredients quickly, the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master is incredibly useful. These tools help you create the perfect crockpot butter chicken with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

9. Conclusion

With this easy crockpot butter chicken recipe, you get a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The best part? It requires minimal prep and hands-on time, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and relax. Try it today and experience how a few simple ingredients can transform into a weeknight dinner wonder!

Easy Crockpot Butter Chicken: A Weeknight Wonder!