There’s something utterly enchanting about the aroma of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken wafting through your home, isn’t there? Picture this: tender chicken simmering in a rich, creamy sauce bursting with spices that make your taste buds do a little happy dance. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those cozy nights when you want to indulge without breaking out into a sweat over the stove.
Now imagine gathering your loved ones around the dinner table, their eyes lighting up as they catch a whiff of this glorious dish. This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is not just food; it’s an experience! Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a casual get-together with friends, this dish transforms any ordinary meal into a celebration. For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Prepare to be dazzled by this easy-to-make dish that brings explosive flavors with minimal effort
- The vibrant colors and creamy texture make it visually stunning for entertaining
- It’s versatile enough to pair with rice, naan, or whatever you have on hand
- Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser even for picky eaters!
One time, I whipped up this delectable dish for my family reunion, and let me tell you—everyone was clamoring for seconds! My Uncle Joe even declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which he probably has never said about anything else.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Ginger: Use fresh ginger for an aromatic kick that ground ginger just can’t match.
Canned Tomato Puree: Opt for high-quality puree for a rich base full of flavor.
Coconut Milk: Choose full-fat coconut milk for creaminess that elevates the sauce.
Butter: Don’t skimp on good butter; it adds that essential richness to the sauce.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves will give you the best flavor compared to pre-minced options.
Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): These spices are crucial; they create that signature buttery goodness in every bite.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the vibrant flavors.
Cilantro (for garnish): Fresh cilantro adds color and brightness to finish off your dish beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your chicken into bite-sized pieces and mincing your garlic and ginger. A sharp knife makes this step much easier!
Sauté Garlic and Ginger: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes should do the trick.
Add Spices: Stir in cumin, coriander, and garam masala next. Cook them briefly until they become aromatic. This will intensify their flavors beautifully!
Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker: Transfer your sautéed mixture into the slow cooker along with chicken pieces, tomato puree, and coconut milk. Mix well until everything is coated.
Set Your Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells heavenly!
Add Final Touches: Once cooked through, stir in more butter if desired (because why not?) and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Now, all that’s left is to serve this creamy dream over fluffy rice or with warm naan—make sure you soak up every last bit of that incredible sauce!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken recipe is rich and creamy, perfect for meal prep
- The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it even more delicious on the second day
- Serve it with rice or naan for a complete experience that tantalizes the taste buds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker. This step enhances flavor and creates a beautiful texture in your dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute chicken with chickpeas for a vegetarian version or add spinach for extra nutrition and color. Customize spices according to your taste preferences.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Slow Cooker Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spices when making this dish to elevate its flavor profile remarkably
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning according to your preference
- Pairing with basmati rice helps soak up all that delicious sauce perfectly!
Sharing my first attempt at Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, I remember my friends raving about how it tasted like restaurant-quality food at home—definitely a proud chef moment!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken?
Yes, but thawing beforehand improves texture and allows for better seasoning absorption.
How long does it take to cook on low?
Cooking on low typically takes about six to eight hours for tender chicken.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Butter Chicken?
Serve with basmati rice, naan bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, spiced sauce. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, this effortless recipe fills your home with an enticing aroma and delights everyone at the table. Serve it over fluffy rice or with warm naan to soak up every delightful bite.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5–2 lbs)
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger (minced)
- 1 cup canned tomato puree
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp coriander
- 2 tsp garam masala
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince garlic and ginger.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in cumin, coriander, and garam masala; cook briefly until aromatic.
- Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker along with chicken, tomato puree, and coconut milk; mix well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in additional butter if desired and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor, brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. For a vegetarian version, substitute chickpeas for chicken. Feel free to add spinach for extra nutrition.