Oh, let me tell you about my *slow cooker butter chicken*! This dish has a special place in my heart and my kitchen. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma wafted through the house and brought everyone running to the dinner table. It’s so comforting and full of flavor, perfect for those cozy nights when you just want to feel wrapped up in something delicious. The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it practically does all the work for you! You just toss in the ingredients, set it, and let it work its magic. The chicken turns out tender and infused with all those wonderful spices, while the creamy sauce is just divine. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a beloved staple in your home, too. It’s not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this easy and flavorful slow cooker butter chicken recipe together!

Ingredients List

To make my delicious slow cooker butter chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating that rich, comforting flavor we all love. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs – I find thighs keep the dish juicy, but you can use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• 1 cup butter – This adds the creaminess that makes butter chicken so indulgent!
• 1 onion, chopped – It brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a must for that aromatic base.
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated – Fresh ginger gives a lovely zing!
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes – This will form the heart of our sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For that rich and creamy finish.
• 2 tablespoons garam masala – The star of the show for that authentic Indian flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt – A little seasoning goes a long way!
• 1 teaspoon pepper – Just enough for a gentle kick.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – This brightens everything up.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish – It adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to create a meal that warms your heart and fills your belly!

How to Prepare Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! This part is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s as simple as it gets. Here’s how to prepare your slow cooker butter chicken step-by-step:

1. First things first, grab your slow cooker and place the 2 pounds of boneless chicken thighs right in there. If you’re using chicken breasts instead, that works too; just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
2. Next, add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. I love how these aromatics create a lovely base for our dish—you’ll start to smell that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes. This is where our sauce begins to take shape. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything. Then, sprinkle in the garam masala, salt, and pepper to season your chicken and sauce.
4. Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 4 hours. I recommend low and slow for the tenderest chicken, but you know your schedule best!
5. Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. It should be so tender that it practically falls apart. Shred the chicken using two forks—this is the fun part!
6. Now, it’s time to stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice back into the sauce. This gives it that creamy, dreamy texture we all crave. Give everything a good stir to mix it well.
7. Finally, add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and give it a final mix. Let it sit for a quick moment to absorb all those flavors before serving.
8. When you’re ready to eat, scoop out some of that heavenly butter chicken and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve it alongside rice or warm naan for a complete meal!

And there you have it! Your slow cooker butter chicken is ready to be enjoyed. It’s hearty, comforting, and absolutely bursting with flavor!

Tips for Success

To make sure your slow cooker butter chicken turns out absolutely fabulous, I’ve got some handy tips that’ll elevate your dish even further. First off, don’t skip the marination! If you have a little extra time, marinate the chicken thighs in some garam masala, salt, and a splash of lemon juice for a couple of hours or even overnight. This really helps to infuse those spices into the meat.

When it comes to cooking time, remember that every slow cooker is a bit different. If you can, check the chicken around the 5-hour mark if cooking on low, just to ensure it doesn’t overcook and become dry. You want it tender, not mushy! And if you’re in a hurry, the high setting works great too—just keep it to around 4 hours.

Also, for a little extra depth of flavor, you can sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker. This caramelization adds a lovely richness! Lastly, always taste your sauce before serving; you might want to adjust the salt or add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Trust me, these little touches make a big difference!

Variations of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to customize your slow cooker butter chicken! One of my favorite variations is to add vegetables for a heartier meal. Try tossing in spinach, bell peppers, or even peas during the last hour of cooking. They’ll soften beautifully and add a lovely pop of color and nutrition!

You can also play with the spices. If you enjoy a bit more heat, add some cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the mix. Alternatively, for a sweeter twist, toss in a few cinnamon sticks or a dash of cardamom for an aromatic flair.

Don’t forget about protein substitutions! While chicken is traditional, feel free to swap in shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If using shrimp, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking so they don’t get overcooked. For a vegan variation, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and skip the butter—trust me, it still tastes incredible!

With so many options, you can make this dish your own while still enjoying that comforting, creamy goodness!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover slow cooker butter chicken is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to save it for later, it freezes beautifully! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it should last for about 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is a breeze. If you’re using the microwave, simply place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat in short increments, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. If it seems a little thick, feel free to add a splash of water or cream to restore that lovely, creamy texture. Enjoy your comforting meal again!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, knowing a bit about the nutrition can help you enjoy it even more! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for one serving of my slow cooker butter chicken:

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to check the labels, especially if you’re watching your intake of certain nutrients. Enjoy this rich dish knowing it’s packed with flavor and goodness!

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While I prefer the juiciness of chicken thighs, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily make a dairy-free version by substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk. It adds a lovely flavor while keeping that creamy texture we all love.

How can I adjust the spice level?
If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the mix! Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste as it cooks.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prep all your ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and then just throw everything in the slow cooker the next day. It makes mealtime so much easier!

What should I serve with butter chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or naan. You can also serve it with a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to adore this slow cooker butter chicken for so many reasons! First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a bit of chopping and stirring, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic. The flavor? Oh my goodness, it’s packed with warmth and spice, making every bite feel like a cozy hug. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less mess and more time to relax with your loved ones.

And don’t even get me started on how comforting it is! Whether you’re having a busy week or a quiet Sunday, this dish brings joy and satisfaction to the table. You’ll love how it fills your home with delightful aromas, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be a recipe you come back to again and again!

Call to Action

I’d love to hear about your experience with this slow cooker butter chicken recipe! Did you make any delicious tweaks or try a fun variation? Please leave a comment below and share your thoughts or any tips you have. Cooking is all about community and sharing, so let’s inspire each other! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to let your friends know about it too. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see what you create!

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: 7 Comforting Servings to Savor

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A comforting slow cooker butter chicken recipe that is easy to prepare and full of flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs
• 1 cup butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
3. Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir in garam masala, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Once cooked, remove chicken and shred it.
6. Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice.
7. Add shredded chicken back to the slow cooker.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

• You can use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk.
• Serve with rice or naan for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: slow cooker butter chicken, easy butter chicken recipe, Indian butter chicken