Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving the rich, aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is your answer! Tender chicken thighs simmered in a luscious, spiced tomato and coconut milk sauce, this dish is a flavor explosion that’s incredibly easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe brings the taste of your favorite Indian restaurant right to your table. Let’s dive in and create this creamy, dreamy dish!

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Slow Cooker Butter Chicken:

🍗 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or bone-in for extra flavor)
🧈 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
🧅 1 large onion, finely diced
🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
🫚 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
🍅 1 cup tomato passata (or tomato puree)
🥥 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
🌿 1 tablespoon garam masala
🌿 1 teaspoon ground cumin
🌿 1 teaspoon ground coriander
🌿 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
🧂 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
🧂 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
🌿 Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
🥄 1/4 cup crème fraîche or heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup baby potatoes, halved (for a one-pot meal)
• 1 cup chickpeas (for added protein and texture)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Slow Cooker Butter Chicken:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Toast the Spices: Add the garam masala, cumin, coriander, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Toast the spices for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until aromatic.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in 1/4 cup of water to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker.
4. Add the Remaining Ingredients: To the slow cooker, add the chicken thighs, tomato passata, coconut milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the sauce is rich and flavorful.
6. Finish the Dish: Once cooked, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and crème fraîche or heavy cream (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or pearl barley.

🍴 Pro Tips & Variations

• Spice It Up: Add extra cayenne pepper or a diced chili for more heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for cauliflower florets or tofu.
• Creamier Sauce: Use heavy cream instead of coconut milk for a richer, more traditional butter chicken.
• One-Pot Meal: Add baby potatoes or chickpeas to the slow cooker for a complete meal.

For more slow cooker inspiration, check out our Top 5 Slow Cooker Recipes for Busy Nights.

🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much.

Looking for more make-ahead meals? Try out Slow-cooked dinners that are freezer friendly

🍽️ Recipe Card (Structured Data)

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (slow cooker)
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 400 per serving

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Leave a review below!)