The rich and aromatic flavors of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken make it a true comfort food classic. This dish blends tender, slow-cooked chicken with a velvety, spiced tomato-cream sauce, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent. With its deep, warming spices and a luscious texture, it pairs beautifully with basmati rice or soft, fluffy naan.
Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also effortless to make. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with a symphony of spices while keeping it melt-in-your-mouth tender. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests with its restaurant-quality taste, this butter chicken recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions:
- In a slow cooker, add the chicken, onion, garlic, and ginger.
- In a separate bowl, mix together tomato sauce, heavy cream, Greek yogurt, butter, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), chicken broth, and lemon juice. Pour over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside basmati rice or naan bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a classic Indian dish that has won hearts across the world with its velvety tomato-based sauce, rich spices, and tender chicken. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor or over a stovetop, this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken recipe takes all the flavors of the beloved dish and makes it incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality Butter Chicken right at home, without the hassle of constant stirring or watching over the stove.
If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine but think it’s too complicated to make at home, this recipe will change your mind. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the chicken to absorb all the aromatic spices and develop a depth of flavor that’s unbeatable. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
A Brief History of Butter Chicken
The origins of Butter Chicken date back to the 1950s in Delhi, India. The dish was created by Kundan Lal Gujral, Kundan Lal Jaggi, and Thakur Dass, who ran the famous Moti Mahal restaurant. They discovered that by simmering tandoori chicken in a creamy tomato sauce, they could create a dish that was rich, flavorful, and satisfying.
What made Butter Chicken unique was its mild yet deep flavor profile—a combination of warming spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric balanced with a creamy, buttery sauce. Unlike spicier Indian curries, Butter Chicken is perfect for those who love Indian flavors but prefer a milder heat level. Today, it is one of the most well-known and beloved Indian dishes worldwide, appearing on menus from New York to London to Sydney.
Why This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is the Best
There are many ways to prepare Butter Chicken, but this slow cooker version stands out for several reasons:
- Hands-Free Cooking – No need to stand over a stove. The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop over time, making it incredibly rich and flavorful.
- Perfectly Tender Chicken – Cooking low and slow ensures that the chicken remains moist and juicy while absorbing all the delicious spices.
- Healthier Option – Many restaurant versions use heavy cream and extra butter. This recipe uses Greek yogurt and a controlled amount of butter, making it lighter while still creamy and satisfying.
- Budget-Friendly – With simple, easy-to-find ingredients, this meal is cost-effective and great for meal prep.
- Family-Friendly – The mild spice level makes it ideal for kids and anyone who prefers a less spicy dish.
Health Benefits of Butter Chicken
While Butter Chicken is often seen as an indulgent dish, it actually has several health benefits when made at home with wholesome ingredients:
- High-Protein Meal – Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which supports muscle growth and keeps you full longer.
- Rich in Anti-Inflammatory Spices – Spices like turmeric, cumin, and garam masala contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to boost immunity and digestion.
- Good for Gut Health – Greek yogurt, used in the marinade and sauce, contains probiotics that support a healthy digestive system.
- Healthy Fats – Instead of excessive butter, this recipe balances creaminess with a moderate amount of healthy fats from yogurt and a touch of butter.
Ingredients Breakdown
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the iconic flavor of Butter Chicken:
- Chicken Thighs – More flavorful and tender than chicken breasts, they hold up well to slow cooking.
- Tomato Sauce – Provides the rich, slightly tangy base of the sauce.
- Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess while also tenderizing the chicken.
- Heavy Cream – Creates the signature velvety texture of the sauce.
- Garam Masala – A blend of warming spices that gives Butter Chicken its distinctive taste.
- Turmeric & Cumin – Adds earthiness and depth of flavor.
- Cinnamon & Paprika – A touch of warmth and smokiness.
- Garlic & Ginger – Fresh aromatics that enhance the overall taste.
- Butter – A key ingredient for that rich, indulgent finish.
- Cayenne Pepper (Optional) – For those who prefer a little extra heat.
How to Serve Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various side dishes:
Best Side Dishes for Butter Chicken
- Basmati Rice – The fluffy texture soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Garlic Naan or Roti – Perfect for scooping up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
- Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) – A fragrant rice dish that enhances the overall meal.
- Steamed Vegetables – A light and healthy addition to balance out the richness.
- Indian Mango Chutney – Adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the dish.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Butter Chicken tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze – For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat – Warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few things to watch out for:
- Using Too Much Cream – The key to perfect Butter Chicken is balance. Too much cream can overpower the spices.
- Skipping the Yogurt Marinade – Marinating the chicken in yogurt helps tenderize it and infuse the flavors.
- Overcooking the Chicken – While slow cookers are forgiving, cooking the chicken too long on high heat can make it dry.
- Not Toasting the Spices – Even though this is a slow cooker recipe, lightly toasting the spices before adding them can intensify their flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt and heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! Simply serve it with cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Simply sauté the chicken and onions, add the remaining ingredients, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
What other proteins can I use?
You can swap chicken for paneer, tofu, or even shrimp for different variations.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken recipe is the ultimate way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Its rich flavors, creamy texture, and tender chicken make it a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re new to cooking Indian food or a seasoned pro, this dish is sure to impress.
Try it once, and it will quickly become a go-to recipe in your home!
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is the perfect combination of rich flavors, creamy texture, and effortless cooking, making it a must-try dish for anyone who loves Indian cuisine. By using a slow cooker, you allow the spices to develop deep, aromatic flavors while ensuring the chicken remains tender and juicy.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, family-friendly, and great for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, a dish to impress guests, or simply a new favorite to add to your rotation, this Butter Chicken recipe delivers on all fronts. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal that brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen.
Try this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken today, and experience why it has become a beloved dish worldwide. Once you taste the luxuriously creamy sauce and perfectly spiced chicken, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection!