Crockpot Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and tender chicken, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your family and friends. With its creamy sauce and aromatic spices, Crockpot Butter Chicken will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it work its magic while you handle other tasks.
- Rich Flavors: The blend of spices creates a robust taste that brings authentic Indian cuisine to your table.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair with naan, rice, or even veggies for a complete meal that fits any dietary preference.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking; store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make the best Crockpot Butter Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools that simplify the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large nonstick pan
- Immersion blender (or regular blender)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking, ensuring tender chicken without constant monitoring.
- Large nonstick pan: Ideal for sautéing ingredients without sticking, enhancing flavor without added oil.
- Immersion blender: Makes it easy to purée the sauce directly in the pot, saving time on cleanup.
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
- 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 Finishing Touches
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (sliced into tablespoons)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro (optional)
- Naan (warmed, for serving)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
How to Make Crockpot Butter Chicken
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the oil, then sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until golden brown, stirring occasionally for about 3–6 minutes.
– Add all spices and stir constantly for about 1–3 minutes until fragrant.
– Stir in diced tomatoes, scraping the bottom of the pan to mix well. Allow this mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken
Trim excess fat from chicken thighs but leave some for added flavor.
– Place chicken in the slow cooker and stir to coat it with the sauce.
– Arrange thighs in a single layer with smooth side down.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
Cover the slow cooker.
– Cook on high for 2-1/2–4 hours or low for 4–6 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 4: Blend Sauce
Remove cooked chicken from the slow cooker and chop into bite-sized pieces.
– Use an immersion blender or transfer sauce to a regular blender to purée until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return blended sauce to the slow cooker.
– Stir in sliced butter and heavy cream until fully combined and smooth.
Step 6: Serve
Add chopped chicken back into the sauce and stir in chopped cilantro if desired. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot with rice and naan.
Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Butter Chicken!
How to Serve Crockpot Butter Chicken
Crockpot Butter Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
With Naan
- Warm Naan: Serve this buttery chicken with warm naan bread for a perfect scoopable pairing.
- Garlic Naan: For an extra kick, choose garlic naan to enhance the dish’s aromatic spices.
Over Rice
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly, making each bite satisfying.
- Coconut Rice: Add a twist by serving with coconut rice, which adds subtle sweetness and creaminess.
Topped with Cilantro
- Fresh Cilantro Garnish: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness that complements the spices.
With Yogurt
- Raita: A side of cucumber raita can cool down the heat and add a refreshing element to your meal.
As a Wrap
- Butter Chicken Wraps: Use leftover chicken in wraps with lettuce and tomatoes for a quick lunch option.
How to Perfect Crockpot Butter Chicken
Creating the perfect Crockpot Butter Chicken involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.
- Spices: Use fresh spices instead of old ones to maximize flavor and aroma in your sauce.
- Chicken Quality: Opt for high-quality, boneless skinless chicken thighs for tenderness and juiciness.
- Adjust Creaminess: Modify the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for richness; you can reduce it for a lighter version.
- Blend Smoothly: Ensure you blend the sauce until completely smooth for the best texture; chunky sauce can be less enjoyable.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning according to your palate.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Butter Chicken
Complementing your Crockpot Butter Chicken with delicious sides can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Steamed Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies like broccoli or carrots add nutrition and balance to the meal.
- Chickpea Salad: A refreshing chickpea salad provides crunchiness and protein, making it a hearty side.
- Cucumber Salad: This light salad can add crunch and freshness, perfect for cooling down spicy bites.
- Samosas: Crispy samosas filled with potatoes or peas make an excellent appetizer alongside butter chicken.
- Pulao Rice: Fragrant pulao rice infused with spices adds another layer of flavor without overpowering the main dish.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be an unexpected but comforting accompaniment to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crockpot Butter Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that could affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onions, garlic, and spices adds depth to the flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step; it enhances your sauce.
- Using low-quality chicken: Low-quality meat can lead to a tough texture. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best results.
- Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times vary based on slow cooker models. Always check that your chicken reaches 165°F for safety and tenderness.
- Not blending the sauce: A chunky sauce won’t give you that creamy texture. Blend until smooth for a restaurant-quality finish.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish before serving. Adjust spices and salt as needed for a perfectly balanced flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Crockpot Butter Chicken
- Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Crockpot Butter Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through (about 20–25 minutes).
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crockpot Butter Chicken?
Crockpot Butter Chicken is a creamy Indian-inspired dish made with tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce flavored with spices.
How long does it take to make Crockpot Butter Chicken?
The total time is about 5 hours, depending on whether you choose high (2-4 hours) or low (4-6 hours) cooking settings.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor. If using breasts, watch closely as they can dry out more quickly.
What can I serve with Crockpot Butter Chicken?
Serve with warm naan and fluffy rice for a complete meal that satisfies all cravings.
How can I customize my Crockpot Butter Chicken?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Adjust spice levels according to your preference by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Butter Chicken is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Crockpot Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Crockpot Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that brings the flavors of Indian cuisine right to your table. This effortless slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic spices and a luscious tomato-based sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Simply toss the ingredients into the crockpot, and let it simmer until the chicken is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Serve it hot with warm naan or fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that will impress family and friends alike. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, Crockpot Butter Chicken is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil)
- 1 large yellow onion
- 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 can diced tomatoes
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in oil over medium-high heat for about 3–6 minutes until golden brown. Stir in spices and tomatoes, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add chicken thighs to the slow cooker and coat them well with the sauce. Arrange them in a single layer.
- Cook on high for 2½–4 hours or low for 4–6 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once cooked, remove chicken and chop into bite-sized pieces. Blend the sauce until smooth using an immersion blender.
- Return blended sauce to the slow cooker, stir in butter and cream until combined. Add chopped chicken back into the sauce and serve hot with rice or naan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (on low)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
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