Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy, rich, and comforting Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken is an effortless way to enjoy a creamy, spiced curry. Tender chicken cooked in a silky, tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices makes it an ideal family dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken stock
- Tomato paste
- Fresh lemon juice
- Garlic, ginger, onion
- Spices: cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, garam masala
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Butter, heavy cream
- Sugar
Directions
- Combine tomato paste, spices, chicken, onion, butter, and stock in a slow cooker.
- Cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours.
- Stir in cream before serving.
- Serve with rice and naan.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (HIGH) or 8 hours (LOW)
Variations
- Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
- Add cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan or microwave.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well, offering more flavor and moisture.
2. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, follow the Instant Pot instructions provided on the recipe page.
3. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
4. How do I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to taste.
5. What should I serve it with?
Pair with basmati rice and warm naan bread.
6. Can I skip the sugar?
Yes, but it helps balance the acidity of the tomato.
7. Can I use low-fat cream?
Full-fat cream will give you the best texture, but low-fat can be substituted.
8. How do I prevent the sauce from being too thin?
Cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
9. Can I use frozen chicken?
Fresh chicken is recommended for best texture, but frozen chicken can be used.
10. Can I make it ahead?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients and cook it later in the day.
Conclusion
This Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again.
Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken
This easy, rich, and comforting Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken is an effortless way to enjoy a creamy, spiced curry. Tender chicken cooked in a silky, tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices makes it an ideal family dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (HIGH) or 8 hours (LOW)
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Servings: 8
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by measuring and chopping as needed.
- Add tomato paste, spices, chicken, onion, butter, and stock to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine everything evenly.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours.
- Stir in heavy cream just before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with basmati rice and naan.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
