Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Craving a rich and flavorful Indian dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious? This slow cooker butter chicken recipe is your answer. With tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, this dish brings the flavors of a restaurant-quality meal to your home kitchen with minimal effort. Read on to discover how to create this comforting, aromatic dish that will surely become a staple in your dinner rotation.

What is Slow Cooker Butter Chicken?

Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a popular Indian dish that features chicken cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. Traditionally, this dish requires marinating the chicken and cooking it in a tandoor before simmering it in the sauce. The slow cooker version simplifies the process, allowing you to achieve tender, flavorful chicken without the need for extensive preparation. The result is a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients List for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

To make this delicious butter chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked basmati rice or naan (for serving)

Substitutions and Variations

Customize this recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs with the following substitutions and variations:

• Meat Alternatives: Substitute the chicken with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, lamb, or a plant-based meat substitute.
• Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream and yogurt with coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the heat level, or add fresh green chilies for extra spice.
• Vegetarian: Use tofu or paneer instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Additional Vegetables: Add bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and grating the ginger. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger on top of the chicken. Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
4. Add Butter and Cream: Dot the butter pieces over the sauce, then pour in the heavy cream and yogurt.
5. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir and Adjust Seasoning: Once cooked, stir the butter chicken well to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Stirring the Sauce Properly: Ensure you mix the sauce ingredients well to distribute the spices evenly.
2. Overcooking the Chicken: While the slow cooker method is forgiving, overcooking can still result in dry chicken. Stick to the recommended cooking times.
3. Skipping the Butter: Butter is essential for the rich flavor of this dish. Do not skip or substitute it.
4. Adding Cream Too Early: Adding cream at the beginning can cause it to curdle. Add it with the yogurt towards the end of the cooking process.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Serve your butter chicken over a bed of steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread. These accompaniments help soak up the delicious sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh cucumber raita.

Presentation Ideas for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

For a beautiful presentation, garnish the butter chicken with fresh cilantro leaves. You can also add a sprinkle of garam masala on top for extra aroma and flavor. Serve in a large, shallow bowl with rice or naan on the side to create an inviting and appetizing meal.

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping the onion, garlic, and ginger the night before and storing them in the refrigerator.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture overnight for deeper flavor.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor.

Q: Can I make this dish spicier?

A: Absolutely! Increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh green chilies to the sauce for extra heat.

Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?

A: Substitute the heavy cream and yogurt with coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Q: Can I freeze butter chicken?

A: Yes, butter chicken freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream?

A: You can use half-and-half, coconut milk, or a dairy-free cream substitute.

Q: Is it necessary to sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger before adding to the slow cooker?

A: Sautéing these ingredients enhances their flavor, but it is not necessary. You can add them directly to the slow cooker if you prefer.

Conclusion

This slow cooker butter chicken recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic Indian dish with minimal effort. With tender chicken and a rich, creamy sauce infused with aromatic spices, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress. Customize it to your taste and dietary needs, and enjoy the convenience of a slow cooker to create a delicious and comforting dish. Give it a try and savor the flavors of this wonderful recipe. Happy cooking!

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