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Home » Recipes » Main Courses

Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken

Published: Mar 9, 2025 by Janet · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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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

  1. Combine tomato paste, spices, chicken, onion, butter, and stock in a slow cooker.
  2. Cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours.
  3. Stir in cream before serving.
  4. 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.

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Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken

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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.

  • Author: Janet
  • 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

  1. Prepare all ingredients by measuring and chopping as needed.
  2. Add tomato paste, spices, chicken, onion, butter, and stock to the slow cooker.
  3. Stir to combine everything evenly.
  4. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours.
  5. Stir in heavy cream just before serving.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve hot with basmati rice and naan.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

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More Main Courses

  • Asian-Style Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps
  • Garlic Parmesan Chicken
  • Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
  • Steak & Queso Rice

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Hi, I’m Janet! Welcome to Recipes by Janet, where I share simple, delicious, and reliable recipes for every meal.

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