Crockpot Butter Chicken

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful dish that practically cooks itself, then you’re in for a treat with my Crockpot Butter Chicken! This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, this dish is great for family gatherings or anytime you want to impress your friends with a comforting meal.

The magic of this recipe lies in its rich spices and creamy sauce that wraps around tender chicken. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax.
• Family-friendly appeal: The creamy, mildly spiced flavor is sure to please even picky eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and have a warm meal waiting when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Crockpot Butter Chicken, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or olive oil)
• 1 large yellow onion (finely diced, about 1-1/2 cups)
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 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
• 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

For Creaminess

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (sliced into tablespoons)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

To Serve

• 1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro (optional)
• Naan (warmed, for serving)
• Cooked rice

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless chicken breasts or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cauliflower during the last hour of cooking for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Make it spicier: If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños.
• Creamy alternative: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that still delivers on richness.

How to Make Crockpot Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add your oil and let it warm up before sautéing the onion, garlic, and ginger. This step is crucial because cooking these ingredients until golden brings out their natural sweetness and builds a solid flavor base for your sauce. Once everything is fragrant and looking lovely, stir in your spices along with the diced tomatoes. Let the mixture cool slightly before transferring it to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Trim any large pieces of fat from the chicken thighs but leave some on for flavor—it makes all the difference! Place the chicken thighs into your slow cooker and give them a gentle stir so they’re nicely coated in that aromatic sauce. Arrange them smooth side down in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Cover and cook on high for 2-1/2 to 4 hours or low for 4 to 6 hours until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 3: Blend the Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the crockpot and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Now it’s time to make that sauce dreamy smooth! Use an immersion blender right in the crockpot or transfer everything into a regular blender. Blending ensures all those beautiful flavors meld together perfectly.

Step 4: Enrich with Creaminess

Return that velvety sauce back into your slow cooker and stir in those slices of butter along with heavy cream. This step adds richness and creates that signature creamy texture we all love about butter chicken! Mix until everything is fully combined.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Add the chopped chicken back into your luscious sauce and stir well. If you’d like, toss in some chopped cilantro for freshness—it’s optional but adds a lovely touch! Adjust seasoning as needed, then serve hot over fluffy rice or with warm naan bread. Enjoy every delicious bite!

This Crockpot Butter Chicken is bound to become a favorite at your table just like it has at mine! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Butter Chicken

Making Crockpot Butter Chicken is a delightful journey, and with a few extra tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Prep Ahead: Preparing your ingredients the night before can save you time on busy days. Chop the onions, garlic, and ginger, and store them in the fridge. This makes for a quick assembly in the morning.

• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Taking the time to sauté your onions, garlic, and ginger until golden really enhances the flavors. This step builds a rich base for your sauce that will make all the difference!

• Use Quality Spices: Fresh spices are key to unlocking that authentic Indian flavor. If possible, opt for whole spices that you can grind yourself or purchase from specialty stores for a more vibrant taste.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat but still want that flavor punch, start with less red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. You can always add more spices later if needed!

• Let It Rest: Once you’ve finished cooking, let your butter chicken sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.

How to Serve Crockpot Butter Chicken

Serving Crockpot Butter Chicken is just as important as preparing it! Here are some ideas to present this flavorful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color that complements the richness of the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors wonderfully.
• Sliced green chilies: For those who like it spicy, thinly sliced green chilies offer an added kick and vibrant color.

Side Dishes

• Warm naan: Soft and pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up butter chicken and soaking up all that luscious sauce.

• Basmati rice: The fluffy texture of basmati rice pairs beautifully with butter chicken and helps balance its rich flavors.

• Cucumber raita: A yogurt-based cucumber salad provides a cool contrast to the warm spices in the butter chicken. It’s refreshing and easy to make!

• Roasted vegetables: A medley of roasted veggies like cauliflower, bell peppers, or carrots adds some hearty nutrition and crunch alongside your meal.

Now you’re all set to enjoy a comforting bowl of Crockpot Butter Chicken! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Crockpot Butter Chicken is a fantastic choice for meal prep! Not only does it save time on busy weeknights, but the flavors deepen and improve when stored. You can easily prepare this dish in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• For longer storage, portion out the butter chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crockpot Butter Chicken!

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

Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just be aware that they may cook a little faster, so check for doneness sooner.

How do I make Crockpot Butter Chicken spicier?

To add more heat to your Crockpot Butter Chicken, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers during cooking. Adjust according to your taste preference!

Can I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream?

Absolutely! For a dairy-free version of Crockpot Butter Chicken, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream. This will give you a rich and creamy texture while keeping the dish flavorful.

What should I serve with Crockpot Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with warm naan or steamed rice. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Crockpot Butter Chicken! Its rich flavors and tender chicken make it truly special, perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices and toppings to make it your own. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!