Crockpot Butter Chicken

Crockpot Butter Chicken is the perfect dish for anyone craving a taste of India with minimal fuss. This recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy sauce that combines vibrant spices and ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for an easy weeknight meal, Crockpot Butter Chicken will impress your guests and satisfy your hunger. Its unique blend of flavors makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do all the work!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices creates a deliciously rich and aromatic sauce.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with naan, rice, or even as a filling in wraps.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is packed with flavor but mild enough for all ages to enjoy.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Crockpot Butter Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Nonstick pan
• Immersion blender (or regular blender)
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the heart of your recipe, allowing you to cook the chicken low and slow for maximum tenderness.
• Nonstick pan: Perfect for sautéing without sticking, making cleanup easier while enhancing flavors through browning.
• Immersion blender: Ideal for puréeing the sauce directly in the crockpot without transferring it to another container.

Ingredients

Crockpot Butter Chicken brings bold flavors, tender chicken, and a sauce so good you’ll want to lick the bowl! Shop the recipe here.

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or olive oil)
• 1 large yellow onion (finely diced (1-1/2 cups))
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste (see note 1)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 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 (see note 2)
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (or crushed; fire-roasted is delicious)

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (see note 3)

For Finishing Touches

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (sliced into tablespoons)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro (optional)

For Serving

• Naan (warmed, for serving, see note 4)
• Cooked rice (for serving)

How to Make Crockpot Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Base Sauce

Heat a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the oil, and once hot:
1. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until golden brown (3–6 minutes).
2. Stir in all spices constantly for 1–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes, scraping the bottom of the pan. Let cool slightly before transferring to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Chicken to Slow Cooker

Trim excess fat from chicken thighs but leave some for flavor.
– Place chicken in the slow cooker.
– Stir well 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 Sauce & Prepare Chicken

Once cooked:
– Remove chicken from slow cooker and chop into bite-sized pieces.
– Use an immersion blender or regular blender to purée sauce until smooth.

Step 4: Finish Your Dish

Return blended sauce to slow cooker.
– Stir in butter and heavy cream until fully combined and smooth.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Add chopped chicken back into sauce.
– Stir in cilantro if desired.
– Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot with rice and naan.

Enjoy your homemade Crockpot Butter Chicken!

How to Serve Crockpot Butter Chicken

Crockpot Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Naan

• Naan is a traditional Indian flatbread that is perfect for scooping up the creamy butter chicken sauce. Warm it slightly before serving for the best texture.

Over Rice

• Serving Crockpot Butter Chicken over fluffy white or brown rice makes for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce, creating a delicious combination.

With Cilantro Garnish

• Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color. Sprinkle some on top of your dish right before serving to enhance the taste and presentation.

Accompanied by Yogurt

• A dollop of plain yogurt can help balance the spices in the butter chicken. It provides creaminess and a cooling effect, making each bite heavenly.

With a Side Salad

• A refreshing side salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the butter chicken, adding freshness to your plate.

How to Perfect Crockpot Butter Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Butter Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices provide more flavor than pre-ground ones. They elevate your dish significantly.
• Sear the chicken first: For added depth, sear the chicken thighs in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving. Feel free to adjust salt, sugar, or spice levels to suit your palate.
• Add vegetables: Consider incorporating veggies like spinach or bell peppers into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to preserve its creamy texture.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Butter Chicken

Pairing your Crockpot Butter Chicken with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience immensely. Here are some excellent options:

1. Basmati Rice: Aromatic basmati rice is ideal as it soaks up flavors well and brings an authentic touch.
2. Pea Pilaf: This fragrant rice dish with peas adds sweetness and color alongside your rich butter chicken.
3. Aloo Gobi: This spiced potato and cauliflower dish offers a hearty contrast that balances nicely with creamy sauces.
4. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based condiment made with cucumbers can help tame spicy flavors while adding freshness.
5. Mango Chutney: Sweet mango chutney provides a delightful tangy-sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with savory butter chicken.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring texture and earthy flavors that complement the rich sauce beautifully.
7. Lentil Dal: Nutritious lentil dal adds protein and fiber while harmonizing with Indian spices found in butter chicken.
8. Chickpea Salad: A light chickpea salad offers crunch and zest, enhancing your dining experience while keeping it healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Crockpot Butter Chicken even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: This step builds flavor. Always sauté onions, garlic, and spices before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Using low-quality chicken: Poor-quality meat can affect taste and texture. Choose boneless skinless thighs for the best results.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste before serving! Adjust salt and spices based on your preferences.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken can dry out if cooked too long. Monitor cooking times closely for juicy results.
• Ignoring the sauce blending: A smooth sauce enhances the dish’s texture. Don’t skip puréeing it before adding cream and butter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store leftover Crockpot Butter Chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep it fresh.

Freezing Crockpot Butter Chicken

• Duration: You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Crockpot Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring regularly until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Crockpot Butter Chicken is a favorite, so here are some common questions people ask.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Crockpot Butter Chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily. Cook carefully and monitor time closely.

What can I serve with Crockpot Butter Chicken?

Serve it with naan bread or steamed rice to soak up that delicious sauce.

How do I make Crockpot Butter Chicken spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking for extra heat.

Can I customize the ingredients in my Crockpot Butter Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition and color.

What if I don’t have garam masala?

You can make a homemade blend with equal parts cumin, coriander, cardamom, and cinnamon as a substitute.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. You can customize it by adding veggies or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; you’ll love how easy it is!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crockpot Butter Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Crockpot Butter Chicken is an effortlessly delicious dish that brings authentic Indian flavors right to your kitchen. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs simmered in a rich and creamy sauce infused with aromatic spices. With minimal prep work, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. Pair it with warm naan or fluffy rice to soak up the delectable sauce, and you’ll have a meal that satisfies and delights everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 large yellow onion (finely diced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2–1/4 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

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Instructions

1. In a nonstick pan, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until golden brown (3–6 minutes). Stir in spices for an additional 1–3 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes and scrape the pan bottom. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Place chicken thighs in the cooker and coat well with the sauce. Cover and cook on high for 2-1/2–4 hours or low for 4–6 hours until chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove chicken, chop into bite-sized pieces, then purée the sauce using an immersion blender until smooth.
5. Return sauce to the slow cooker, stirring in butter and cream until combined. Add chopped chicken back in before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 135mg