Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe warm aroma of spices filled my kitchen as I stirred up memories of family gatherings around a fragrant bowl of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. This recipe is my go-to for busy weeknights, transforming simple ingredients into a hearty meal that practically cooks itself. With just a handful of spices like garam masala and ground turmeric, you’ll create a creamy, gluten-free comfort food that delights both the palate and the soul. Plus, it’s all made in one pot—perfect for those who crave deliciousness without any fuss. Are you ready to bring that restaurant flair home and indulge in a cozy culinary experience? Let’s dive in! Why is Slow Cooker Butter Chicken so special? Simplicity made for anyone—this beginner-friendly recipe requires no complex techniques, just your slow cooker and a few key ingredients. Flavor explosion awaits as the chicken melds beautifully with fragrant spices like garam masala and ginger, creating a mouthwatering sauce. Crowd-pleaser status achieved! Serve this dish at family gatherings or cozy dinners, and watch it disappear. Time-saving convenience means you can toss everything in and let the magic happen while you focus on other tasks. Plus, it’s a versatile gem: try it over fluffy basmati rice, with warm naan, or even paired with a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal! Ingredients • • ## Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – This is your primary protein, ensuring tenderness that shreds beautifully. Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. For the Sauce Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps cook the spices to perfection. Onion – Provides a sweet base and valuable texture. Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth. Ginger – Brings a warm spice that elevates the overall flavor. Diced Tomatoes – Adds acidity and moisture for a luscious sauce. Chicken Broth – Deepens the flavor profile and enhances the sauce’s richness. Heavy Cream – Creates that signature creamy texture; can be swapped with coconut milk if you’re aiming for a dairy-free option. Butter – Ensures the sauce remains smooth and indulgent. For the Spices Garam Masala – The star spice blend, delivering the dish’s signature flavor. Ground Turmeric – Adds vibrant color and earthiness. Ground Cumin – Contributes a warm, nutty taste. Chili Powder – Balances the richness with a gentle kick; adjust according to your preference. Ground Cinnamon – Adds a hint of warmth and sweetness. Ground Cardamom – Provides a mild sweetness with a unique, fragrant twist. Ground Cloves – Intensifies the spice profile, rounding out the flavors. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Step 1: Sauté Aromatics Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add one finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s softened and translucent. Then, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant and aromatic, filling your kitchen with delightful scents. Step 2: Add Spices Sprinkle in the spices: 2 tablespoons of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground cardamom, ½ teaspoon of ground cloves, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to release their vibrant aromas before transferring them to the slow cooker. Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker Transfer the sautéed aromatics to your slow cooker, ensuring you scrape every flavorful bit from the skillet. Add 2 pounds of cut boneless, skinless chicken breast, one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the chicken is well coated with the spiced mixture, preparing for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Step 4: Cook Cover the slow cooker with a lid and set it to low heat, allowing the chicken to cook for 4-6 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender and infused with the rich spices, making the kitchen aroma truly irresistible. Check the chicken around the 4-hour mark to gauge its doneness; it should easily shred with a fork. Step 5: Shred Chicken Once the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. It should effortlessly fall apart, mixing beautifully into the fragrant sauce. Give everything a good stir to ensure the shredded chicken is coated with the creamy sauce base, enhancing the overall flavor of your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. Step 6: Finish Sauce Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of cubed butter into the slow cooker, allowing them to melt into the sauce. Mix well until everything is combined, resulting in a rich and creamy texture that is signature to this butter chicken recipe. Let it sit on the low setting for another 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors. Step 7: Final Flavor Check Taste your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken and adjust the seasonings if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference. Cover and let it rest for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen further. This step ensures that every bite is perfectly balanced and comforting. Step 8: Serve Serve your warm and inviting Slow Cooker Butter Chicken over fluffy basmati rice or with soft naan, allowing the creamy sauce to soak in. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and enjoy this comforting meal that captures the essence of home-cooked goodness. Your family and friends will savor every bite! How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Slow Cooker Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating to preserve flavor and texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label containers with the date for easy reference. Reheating: Thaw frozen Slow Cooker Butter Chicken overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water to maintain creaminess. Avoid Condensation: To prevent sogginess, let the dish cool before sealing to avoid condensation buildup inside the container. What to Serve with Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Looking to create a complete meal that dazzles your taste buds and warms your soul? Fluffy Basmati Rice: Offers a fragrant, fluffy base that perfectly absorbs the creamy sauce, elevating each bite. Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for scooping up the rich butter chicken sauce, adding a delightful texture contrast. Simple Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that adds crunch and coolness, balancing the richness of the dish wonderfully. Sauteed Spinach: Lightly seasoned with garlic, this leafy green adds a burst of color and nutrition to your plate. Roasted Cauliflower: A slightly charred, nutty flavor complements the spices in the butter chicken, bringing additional depth to your meal. Mango Chutney: A sweet and tangy condiment that pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of your butter chicken for a delightful twist. Lassi: Enjoy this flavorful yogurt drink, either sweet or salty, as it perfectly cools down the spice and adds a creamy texture to your meal. Chocolate Mousse: Finish off your culinary experience with a rich and creamy dessert that contrasts with the savory main. Masala Chai: A spiced tea that captures the essence of Indian flavors, perfect for sipping alongside your meal for a comforting touch. Pickled Red Onions: These tangy bites provide a zippy acidity, cutting through the richness of the butter chicken for a balanced experience. Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Variations & Substitutions Feel free to make this recipe your own with these exciting variations and substitutions that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences! Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a luscious, non-dairy alternative, keeping the richness intact. Spice Exchange: Swap garam masala for tandoori spice blend to give a smoky twist, infusing new depths of flavor. Protein Alternative: Use boneless, skinless thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result that holds up beautifully during slow cooking. Veggie Boost: Add sliced bell peppers and spinach in the last hour of cooking, enriching the dish with vibrant colors and nutrients. Heat It Up: If you love a kick, toss in a diced fresh chili or some cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat that’ll excite your palate. Savory Sweetness: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the spices for those who enjoy a sweet contrast. Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh cilantro before serving for a burst of freshness and herby notes that elevate the dish. Coconut Flavor: Incorporate a splash of coconut milk along with the cream to enhance the tropical taste, transporting you to a beach getaway. If you’re also interested in trying a different flavor profile, consider whipping up some Sticky Chicken Rice or a refreshing Hawaiian Chicken Salad. Each brings its own unique joy to the table! Make Ahead Options These Slow Cooker Butter Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the onions, garlic, and ginger, as well as measure out the spices and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before cooking. The assembled slow cooker ingredients (chicken, tomatoes, and broth) can also be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to allow everything to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal, simply combine the prepped components in the slow cooker and follow the instructions, and you’ll have a creamy, satisfying dish with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Quality Ingredients: Use fresh garlic, ginger, and high-quality spices to enhance the flavor of your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, making it more aromatic and delicious. Don’t Rush Cooking: Allow the chicken to cook for the recommended time. This ensures it becomes tender and shreds effortlessly, avoiding tough outcomes common with undercooked chicken. Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder. Alternatively, for a spicier kick, add fresh chili or red pepper flakes during the sautéing stage. Cream Substitutes: For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option while maintaining a creamy texture in your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. Store Leftovers Properly: Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain sauce consistency. Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting chicken for the Slow Cooker Butter Chicken? When choosing chicken, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a fresh look—avoid any pieces that show signs of discoloration or have a strong odor. Fresh chicken should be pink and firm to the touch, which ensures the best texture and taste in your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken. How should I store leftover Slow Cooker Butter Chicken? After your delightful meal, let the Slow Cooker Butter Chicken cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Label the container with the date as a good practice to keep track of freshness! Can I freeze Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, and how? Absolutely! After cooling the chicken, portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring there’s a bit of space for expansion as it freezes. Label and date the containers, then pop them into the freezer where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating! What if my Slow Cooker Butter Chicken ends up too thick? If you find your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken thicker than desired, don’t fret! Simply add a few tablespoons of chicken broth or water while reheating on the stovetop. This will help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency. Always taste and adjust the seasonings after adding liquid to maintain the flavors. Is Slow Cooker Butter Chicken suitable for dietary restrictions like gluten-free? Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t call for any wheat-based ingredients. Just ensure that all your spices and chicken broth are labeled gluten-free as well to avoid any cross-contamination. Enjoy this comforting meal without worry! Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken for Effortless Comfort Experience the delightful flavors of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, a creamy, comforting dish made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 6 hours hrsTotal Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: IndianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1.5 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast1 cup Chicken BrothFor the Sauce2 tablespoons Olive Oil1 medium Onion diced3 cloves Garlic minced1 tablespoon Ginger grated1 14-ounce can Diced Tomatoes1 cup Heavy Cream can be substituted with coconut milk2 tablespoons ButterFor the Spices2 teaspoons Garam Masala1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric1 teaspoon Ground Cumin1 teaspoon Chili Powder0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon0.5 teaspoon Ground Cardamom0.25 teaspoon Ground ClovesSalt & Black Pepper to taste Equipment Slow CookerSkillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Butter ChickenStart by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add one diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it's softened and translucent.Next, stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and aromatic.Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground cardamom, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir these spices into the aromatics and cook for 1 minute.Transfer the sautéed mixture into your slow cooker. Add 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast, along with one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes and 1 cup of chicken broth. Gently mix everything together until the chicken is well-coated in the fragrant mixture.Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Allow the Slow Cooker Butter Chicken to cook for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender.Once the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the tender chicken right in the slow cooker.Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of butter into the slow cooker, mixing thoroughly until melted and blended into the sauce.Taste your creation and adjust seasonings if necessary. Let the dish sit covered for 10-15 minutes before serving.Spoon the creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken over fluffy basmati rice or serve it alongside warm naan. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 37gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg NotesPerfect for busy weeknights and serves well at family gatherings. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
