Slow cooker butter chicken is a beloved dish that merges convenience with the rich, bold flavors of Indian cuisine. In this guide, we present the most comprehensive, restaurant-quality recipe tailored for slow cookers, delivering unmatched depth of flavor, silky texture, and all-day comfort. Our version is free from unnecessary shortcuts, ensuring authentic taste without the complexity of traditional stovetop preparation.
Why Our Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Is the Best
We use a perfectly balanced combination of garam masala, fresh ginger, garlic, and tomatoes, paired with a slow infusion of cream and butter for the most luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth result. With our slow cooking method, the chicken becomes exceptionally tender while the sauce thickens and develops deep, complex flavors.
Ingredients – Rich, Aromatic, and Authentic
For the Marinade:
- 1 ½ lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder (or paprika for mild heat)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (plus more for finishing)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 ½ tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 14 oz (400g) can crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup tomato puree
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken (Essential for Depth)
In a large bowl, combine chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and all spices. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
2. Sauté Aromatics for Richer Base
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until translucent and fragrant (about 5 minutes). Add garam masala, coriander, paprika, chili powder, and cinnamon. Cook spices for 1-2 minutes to release oils.
3. Build the Sauce in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed mix to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, sugar, and salt. Stir well.
4. Add Chicken and Cook Low and Slow
Add marinated chicken to the sauce. Stir to coat. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken is fall-apart tender.
5. Finish With Cream and Butter
Stir in the heavy cream and 2 tbsp of butter. Let cook uncovered on high for an additional 15–20 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy butter chicken with:
- Basmati rice (steamed or buttered)
- Garlic naan or roti
- Cucumber raita
- Pickled onions or mango chutney
Pro Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
- Chicken thighs yield juicier, more flavorful results than breast meat.
- Don’t skip the marination – it’s vital for tender texture and infused spice.
- Double the sauce if serving with rice – it’s that good.
- Use Kashmiri chili for color and balanced heat without overwhelming spice.
Make It Dairy-Free or Keto-Friendly
Dairy-Free Alternative:
Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream and coconut oil in place of butter.
Keto-Friendly Tips:
Skip the sugar and serve with cauliflower rice instead of basmati.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Spice Variations & Add-Ons
Customize your butter chicken with:
- Cashew paste: For a richer, nuttier sauce.
- Fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi): Add 1 tsp for a smoky, authentic twist.
- Green chili: Finely chopped for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly to avoid dryness.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken the night before.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! Adjust chili levels to make it mild.
Conclusion
This slow cooker butter chicken recipe is the ultimate fusion of convenience and authentic Indian flavor. With marinated tender chicken, a velvety tomato-cream sauce, and perfectly balanced spices, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether served for family dinners or cozy gatherings.