Name: Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken for Effortless Flavorful Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken for Effortless Flavorful Dinners 🍛🧈🔥

1. Introduction

Welcome to a world of rich, aromatic flavors with this Indian butter chicken recipe. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights, this slow cooker butter chicken allows you to enjoy a creamy, flavorful Indian curry without the fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its tender chicken and luscious sauce. Plus, making this flavorful dinner in the slow cooker ensures that the spices meld beautifully, delivering authentic taste with minimal effort.

2. Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
1 cup tomato sauce or pureed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free version
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
2 tbsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp tomato paste
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Fresh cilantro for garnish

For a complete shopping list, visit your local grocery store or check online for fresh spices and quality chicken.

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

Preparing the Chicken and Sauce

Start by seasoned chicken with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of garam masala. In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat, then sear the chicken until lightly browned. This step enhances flavor but can be skipped for an even quicker prep, since the slow cooker does the work.

Sautéing Aromatics

In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and translucent. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker.

Combining Ingredients

Add the seared chicken, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and remaining spices to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Cooking

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooker will tenderize the chicken and meld the flavors beautifully, creating a rich Indian curry.

Finishing Touch

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Adjust seasoning with salt and chili powder to taste. Let it simmer until creamy and heated through.

4. Storage Tips and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm gently on the stove. For best results, add a splash of cream or water to restore the sauce’s creamy texture when reheating.

5. Serving Suggestions

Serve your flavorful Indian butter chicken over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. For an extra layer of flavor, pair it with a side of creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta or a crisp salad.

6. Benefits of Making This Recipe in a Slow Cooker

The slow cooker allows the flavors of the spices and ingredients to develop slowly, resulting in a more authentic and intensively flavored dish. It’s also perfect for busy schedules, as you can set it and forget it, coming home to a hot, delicious meal.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this Indian butter chicken dairy-free?

Yes, simply substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream to keep the sauce rich and dairy-free.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and slow cooking can be done on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely. Chicken breasts cook quickly and remain tender, though thighs provide a more traditional, flavorful result.

Are there any recommended substitutions for spices?

If you don’t have garam masala, you can make your own blend or use curry powder as a substitute, adjusting to taste.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for reheating leftovers or crisping naan bread to serve alongside your Indian curry.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures your sautéing and searing are done with ease and durability.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: An all-in-one appliance for quick meals and snacks.

Investing in quality kitchen tools can make your cooking experience more enjoyable and efficient, transforming simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces.

9. Conclusion

This easy slow cooker Indian butter chicken recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful dinner with minimal effort. The slow cooker helps develop deep, authentic flavors that are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying alone. Try this recipe today and indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of homemade Indian curry. Don’t forget to experiment with spices and garnishes to make it uniquely yours!

Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken for Effortless Flavorful Dinners