Crockpot Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy sauce, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on enjoying your time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
- Bold Flavors: The blend of spices brings authentic Indian taste right to your table.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it with naan, rice, or even steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.
- Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken appeal to both kids and adults alike.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for an easy meal later.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this delicious Crockpot Butter Chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large nonstick pan
- Immersion blender (or regular blender)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for slow cooking, which helps develop deep flavors in your dish.
- Large nonstick pan: Perfect for sautéing your onions and spices without sticking, ensuring even cooking.
- Immersion blender: Makes pureeing the sauce easy and mess-free, giving you that smooth texture.
Ingredients
For this mouthwatering Crockpot Butter Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
For the Base
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or olive oil)
- 1 large yellow onion (finely diced (1-1/2 cups))
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
For the Spices
- 1-1/4 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1-1/4 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1-1/4 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1-1/4 teaspoons salt
- 2-1/4 teaspoons garam masala
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
For the Sauce and Chicken
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (or crushed; fire-roasted is delicious)
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (sliced into tablespoons)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro (optional)
For Serving
- Naan (warmed)
- Cooked rice
How to Make Crockpot Butter Chicken
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Spices
Heat a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the oil, and once hot:
* Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until golden brown (about 3–6 minutes).
* Add all spices and stir constantly for 1–3 minutes until fragrant.
* Stir in tomatoes, scraping bottom of the pan to release flavors. Let cool slightly before transferring to slow cooker.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Trim large pieces of fat from chicken thighs but leave some fat:
* Add chicken to slow cooker, stirring to coat in sauce.
* Arrange thighs in a single layer with smooth side down.
* Cover and cook on high for 2-1/2–4 hours or low for 4–6 hours until chicken reaches 165°F.
Step 3: Blend the Sauce
Once cooked:
* Remove chicken from slow cooker and chop into bite-sized pieces.
* Use an immersion blender or transfer sauce to regular blender to purée until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return blended sauce to slow cooker:
* Stir in butter and heavy cream until fully combined and smooth.
Step 5: Final Touches
Add chopped chicken back into sauce:
* Stir in cilantro if using.
* Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot with rice and naan.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken!
How to Serve Crockpot Butter Chicken
Crockpot Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Rice
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, basmati rice is the perfect base to soak up the rich sauce.
- Jasmine Rice: A slightly sweet option that complements the spices in the butter chicken wonderfully.
With Naan
- Garlic Naan: Soft and buttery, garlic naan adds a savory touch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Whole Wheat Naan: A healthier alternative that still provides that satisfying bread texture for dipping.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and color; sprinkle on top just before serving.
- Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch as a garnish.
As a Wrap
- Tortilla Wraps: Use soft tortillas to create delicious wraps filled with butter chicken and fresh vegetables.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the butter chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite.
How to Perfect Crockpot Butter Chicken
To make your Crockpot Butter Chicken truly exceptional, follow these handy tips for maximum flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and spices enhance the dish’s flavor profile significantly compared to dried alternatives.
- Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allowing sufficient cooking time helps tenderize the chicken and meld the flavors together beautifully.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes or garam masala according to your heat preference.
- Blend for Smoothness: Puréeing the sauce creates a velvety texture; don’t skip this step for an authentic experience.
- Garnish Generously: Adding herbs like cilantro or green onions right before serving elevates presentation and taste.
- Experiment with Accompaniments: Try different sides, like roasted vegetables or salads, to complement the richness of the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Butter Chicken
Pairing your Crockpot Butter Chicken with delightful side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options:
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light dressing balances out the richness of butter chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition; carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini work well.
- Chickpea Salad: Protein-packed chickpeas mixed with herbs and lemon juice make for a hearty side that complements Indian flavors.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers crunch and vibrant color while providing fiber alongside your meal.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with spices adds depth to your plate and is an excellent gluten-free option.
- Yogurt Sauce: Creamy yogurt mixed with cucumber and mint provides a cooling contrast to spicy butter chicken; serve on the side for dipping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crockpot Butter Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes that can affect your dish.
Using the wrong type of chicken: Always opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs, as they remain tender during cooking unlike chicken breasts which can dry out.
Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger enhances the flavors. Don’t rush this step; take time to get them golden for a rich taste.
Not adjusting spices: Every palate is different. Taste your sauce before adding the chicken and adjust spices if needed for a more personalized flavor.
Overcooking the chicken: While slow cooking is forgiving, overcooked chicken can become tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without going beyond.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments: After blending the sauce, always taste it again. You may need to add a pinch of salt or sugar to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Crockpot Butter Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Enjoy within 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Crockpot Butter Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until evenly warmed.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying Crockpot Butter Chicken.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While you can use chicken breasts, they tend to dry out more easily than thighs. Thighs provide better flavor and tenderness in this recipe.
What can I serve with Crockpot Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked rice or warm naan bread. You can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
How do I make Crockpot Butter Chicken spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or incorporate diced green chilies into the sauce. Adjust according to your heat preference!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and leave out the butter or use a dairy-free alternative. This will still yield a creamy texture.
How long does it take to cook on low?
Cooking on low typically takes about 4-6 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s tender and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adjusting spices, adding vegetables, or even trying different proteins like turkey or lamb. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner. Try it today!
Crockpot Butter Chicken
Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of this Crockpot Butter Chicken, a comforting dish that’s effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker. With tender chicken thighs simmering in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or hosting a dinner party. The blend of spices brings authentic Indian flavors to your table, making every bite a delightful experience. Serve it over fluffy rice or with warm naan to soak up the luscious sauce. Plus, this recipe is freezer-friendly, allowing you to enjoy this delectable meal anytime.
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 large yellow onion (finely diced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or olive oil)
- 1–1/4 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1–1/4 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1–1/4 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1–1/4 teaspoons salt
- 2–1/4 teaspoons garam masala
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Naan (warmed)
- Cooked rice
Instructions
- In a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in oil until golden brown.
- Add spices and cook until fragrant; then stir in the tomatoes and scrape the pan.
- Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and add chicken thighs.
- Cook on high for 2.5-4 hours or low for 4-6 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove chicken and blend the sauce until smooth; return sauce to slow cooker and mix in butter and cream.
- Add chopped chicken back into the sauce and serve hot with rice or naan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 145mg