Butter chicken, a classic Indian dish, is known for its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and tender, succulent chicken. Traditionally made on the stovetop, this recipe leverages the convenience of a slow cooker to deliver the same incredible flavor with minimal effort. This method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and the sauce to develop deep, complex flavors while you go about your day.
This slow cooker butter chicken recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with aromatic spices, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
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For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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For the Sauce:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients with the chicken. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
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Slow Cook the Chicken: Transfer the marinated chicken to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and incredibly tender.
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Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine and Simmer: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend the sauce directly in the skillet. Alternatively, carefully transfer the sauce to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
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Combine Chicken and Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, gently stir in the prepared sauce. Allow it to simmer in the slow cooker for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the heavy cream and chopped cilantro. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they will cook faster and may become dry if overcooked. Reduce the cooking time accordingly and check for doneness frequently. Chicken thighs are generally preferred for slow cooking because they stay more moist.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more chili powder to the marinade and/or cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also add a few finely chopped green chilies to the sauce for extra heat.
Can I make this in a pressure cooker?
Yes! You can adapt this recipe for a pressure cooker. Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger as directed. Then, add the marinated chicken and sauce ingredients to the pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and cilantro at the end.
How long can I store leftover butter chicken?
Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this butter chicken?
Yes, you can freeze leftover butter chicken for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
This slow cooker butter chicken recipe offers a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this classic Indian dish. The slow cooking process ensures tender chicken and a rich, flavorful sauce. Enjoy!
