Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken

Q: How spicy is this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken, and how can I adjust the heat?

As written, this recipe has a mild-medium heat level. If you're sensitive to spice, omit the cayenne pepper entirely or use just a pinch. For more heat, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon or use Kashmiri chili powder, which has a vibrant red color and milder heat. You can also add a finely chopped green chili pepper to the sauce while cooking. Taste and adjust as you go – remember, you can always add more heat, but it's harder to take it away!

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken The Easiest Indian Feast

By Priya DesaiSeptember 5, 2025

0 (0 Ratings)

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken tonight? I know I do! This recipe delivers a rich, creamy , and aromatic experience. Trust me, it's epic.

Brief Overview

Butter Chicken , or Indian Butter Chicken , hails from Delhi. It's basically comfort food royalty. This Easy Slow Cooker Recipe is a breeze to make, with prep taking only 20 minutes.

After that, your Crockpot Butter Chicken simmers away for 4- 8 hours, yielding six servings of pure bliss.

Main Benefits

This Butter Chicken Recipe is loaded with protein. It's perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party. What makes it special? It's ridiculously easy! Plus, the slow cooker intensifies those amazing Butter Chicken flavors.

Ingredients for Flavour Town

Here's what you need for the ultimate Creamy Butter Chicken experience. Don't skip any steps! You'll need chicken, yogurt, and a bunch of spices for the marinade.

The sauce needs tomatoes, onions, garlic, and of course, butter and cream. This will give you the most Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe

Getting Started: Marinating the Chicken

First, grab your chicken. Mix it with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger garlic paste, and spices. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Honestly, the longer the better! This step is so important for flavor and tenderness.

Sauce Prep: Sautéing the Aromatics

Next, heat some oil or ghee in a skillet. Sauté your onion and garlic until fragrant. This builds the base flavor of your Indian Butter Chicken .

Don't rush this step; patience is key!

Slow Cooker Time

Transfer the sautéed aromatics to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and spices. Stir in the marinated chicken.

Then, cover and cook! Low and slow is the way to go for truly tender Slow Cooker Chicken . This is the secret to the best Easy Indian Recipes .

Finishing Touches

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in butter and heavy cream. Let it sit for 10 minutes to meld. Taste and adjust the salt.

Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve your Indian Slow Cooker Recipes with rice or naan.

Ready to Enjoy?

And that's it! Your Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is ready to impress. Get ready for a flavour explosion that'll have you hooked. Enjoy!

**Ingredients & Equipment: Your Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Arsenal**

So, you're ready to dive into the wonderful world of Slow Cooker Chicken bliss, particularly, the legendary Indian Butter Chicken ? Ace! Let’s get your station prepped.

The beauty of this Butter Chicken Recipe is that it doesn't need fancy kit. Keep it real, keep it simple.

Main Ingredients Breakdown: The Butter Chicken Dream Team

Listen, quality matters, especially when it comes to Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe , but don’t stress too much. Here’s what you need:

Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless thighs, chopped. Chicken thighs are your best friends in a Crockpot Butter Chicken . They stay juicy and tender.
Yogurt: 1 cup (240ml) plain yogurt. Full fat or Greek style is preferable. It tenderizes the meat and adds tang. Don't skimp, treat yo'self!
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .
Ginger Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon (14g) . The fresher, the better.
Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . This is the key spice.
Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Use Kashmiri for mild heat.
Turmeric: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) . Adds color and depth.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) .

Now for the sauce, which is what makes the Creamy Butter Chicken .

Olive Oil or Ghee: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Ghee adds that authentic taste.
Onion: 1 medium , chopped.
Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.
Ginger Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon (14g) .
Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce/794g) can .
Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can .
Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
Cumin: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
Coriander: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) .
Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) (optional, for heat).
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) . Adjust to taste.
Butter: 1/4 cup (60ml) , unsalted. Yes, real butter. It's called Butter Chicken for a reason!
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120ml) .
Cilantro: Fresh, for garnish.

Seasoning Like a Pro: Indian Flavors Unleashed

The spice combo is crucial for that Easy Indian Recipes flavor profile. Garam masala is a must. Cumin and coriander add warmth.

Cayenne gives it a kick. My secret? A tiny pinch of fenugreek leaves.

If you don't have ginger garlic paste, just grate equal parts ginger and garlic. Boom!

Equipment: Keeping It Simple for an Easy Slow Cooker Recipes

Slow Cooker: A 6 quart is ideal, but whatever you have is usually alright.
Large Bowl: For the marinade.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision is key.
Chopping Board & Knife: Safety first, kids!
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring.

Honestly, that’s all you need. No fancy gadgets. Just a bit of love and patience. Before you know it, you'll have a fragrant, flavorful Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken that'll knock your socks off.

Let's get cooking!

Cooking Method: Effortless Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken

Right, so you fancy some Indian Butter Chicken , but you're not feeling a full-on kitchen frenzy? I get it.

That's where this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe comes in! It's like a hug in a bowl, super easy, and packed with flavor.

Honestly, it is one of the Easy Slow Cooker Recipes that I make all the time. And the best thing? It's nearly impossible to mess up.

Let's dive in, shall we?

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

Essential mise en place is key. Chop your 1 medium onion , mince 2 cloves of garlic , and cube 1.

5 lbs of chicken thighs . Measure all your spices: 1 teaspoon garam masala , 1 teaspoon chili powder , 1/2 teaspoon turmeric , 1/2 teaspoon salt , 1 teaspoon ground cumin , 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander , and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper .

Mix it all up and stash the chicken.

For time saving organization, I like to measure out all my spices into a small bowl before I even start chopping.

Seriously, it makes a difference. Don't forget to check your slow cooker for any cracks or damage before you plug it in.

Safety first, people.

step-by-step to Creamy Butter Chicken Goodness

Marinate Magic: In a bowl, mix 1.5 lbs chicken with 1 cup yogurt , 1 tablespoon lemon juice , 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste , and the spices. Cover and chill for 30 minutes (or overnight!).
Aromatic Sauté: Sauté 1 chopped onion in 2 tablespoons olive oil until soft. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste . Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute .
Slow Cooker Base: Dump the sautéed aromatics into your slow cooker.
Sauce Symphony: Add 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes , 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce , remaining spices, and 1/2 teaspoon salt . Stir it all together.
Chicken Time: Add the marinated chicken. Gently stir to coat it in the sauce.
Slow & Steady: Cover and cook on low for 6- 8 hours or high for 4- 6 hours or until the chicken is tender.
Creamy Finish: Stir in 1/4 cup butter and 1/2 cup heavy cream . Let it sit for 10 minutes . Season to taste.
Serve with Flair: Garnish with cilantro. Serve hot with rice or naan! It's easy Butter Chicken !

Pro Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Success

My nan always said, "A little love goes a long way," and she was right! Don't skip the marinade. It tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.

If you're feeling fancy, sear the marinated chicken in the skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. It adds extra flavour.

Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe .

Common mistakes? Not using enough fat (butter and cream, people!). Seriously, Butter Chicken needs it. make-ahead? Absolutely! Prepare the marinade and sauce ingredients the night before, then throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning.

Boom! The best Butter Chicken Recipe .

Recipe Notes for Your Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Adventure!

Right, so you're about to embark on making your own Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken , eh? Awesome! Before we dive in, let's chat about a few things that'll help you nail it.

It is one of the Easy Slow Cooker Recipes , and I want to help you out with this Butter Chicken Recipe ,

Serving It Up Right: Plating and Sides

Okay, first impressions matter! For plating, think vibrant! Serve your Crockpot Butter Chicken in a nice bowl. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro. A swirl of cream? Why not!

Now, sides. Basmati rice is the classic. Fluffy and fragrant, it's perfect for soaking up that Creamy Butter Chicken sauce.

Naan bread is essential. Warm, soft, and ready to scoop! Cucumber raita is a game changer. It is a cooling yogurt dip cuts through the richness.

Trust me on this. If you want something different, then try some lime wedges, adds a little zestiness.

Storing Your Leftover Goodness

Leftovers are your friend. Store your cooked Butter Chicken in an airtight container. It'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Honestly, it tastes even better the next day as the flavours meld even more.

Want to freeze it? Go for it! Portion it into freezer safe bags or containers. It will last for up to 3 months.

Just let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, until piping hot.

A splash of cream can revive the sauce if it looks a bit dry.

Twists and Turns: Variations on a Theme

Fancy mixing things up a bit? Then I've got you. For a veggie version of Indian Butter Chicken , swap the chicken for paneer or chickpeas.

Add them in the last hour. Want to go dairy-free? Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Still tastes amazing!

If you want to swap stuff up or change the dish to fit your mood, then try it!. Maybe some butternut squash if it's Autumn? Get creative! I think that this Butter Chicken Recipe is good as is, but adding a personal touch can never hurt.

Nutrition Nuggets

Let's talk numbers. One serving of this Slow Cooker Chicken dish is roughly 450-550 calories. Protein, fat, and carbs, as well as fibre, sugar, and sodium.

Obviously, this is just an estimate. It can depend on your ingredients and portion size. It's a good source of protein, thanks to the chicken.

Plus, those spices? They're packed with antioxidants! A great recipe for Easy Indian Recipes !

So there you have it. All the little extras to make your Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe journey a success. Now go get cooking, have some fun and enjoy it!.

Now go give the Indian Slow Cooker Recipes a spin!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavours often deepen and improve if you make it a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

It’s like a fine wine, it gets better with time!

My Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?

No worries, this is an easy fix! You can thicken the sauce in a few ways. First, try removing the lid from the slow cooker during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking. For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste.

I don't have all the spices listed. Can I still make Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken?

While the spices are key to that authentic Butter Chicken flavour, don't let a missing ingredient stop you! Garam masala is the most important, so definitely try to include that. If you're missing something like cumin or coriander, the dish will still be tasty, just slightly different.

Think of it as your own personal interpretation of a classic, a bit like different covers of Hey Jude! You can also use a pre-made Indian curry powder blend, adjusting the amount to taste.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken?

Yes, you can definitely freeze it! Let the Butter Chicken cool completely before transferring it to freezer safe containers or zip-top bags. Be sure to leave a little headspace, as the sauce will expand when frozen. It's best to use it within 2-3 months for optimal flavour.

When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Is there a vegetarian or vegan version of this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken recipe?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or chickpeas. Add them in the last hour of cooking as they don't need as long to cook as chicken.

For a vegan Butter Chicken, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, vegan butter or a good quality olive oil, and a plant based yogurt for the marinade. The taste might be slightly different, but still incredibly delicious!

How spicy is this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken, and how can I adjust the heat?

As written, this recipe has a mild medium heat level. If you're sensitive to spice, omit the cayenne pepper entirely or use just a pinch. For more heat, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon or use Kashmiri chili powder, which has a vibrant red color and milder heat.

You can also add a finely chopped green chili pepper to the sauce while cooking. Taste and adjust as you go remember, you can always add more heat, but it's harder to take it away!