Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the bubbling pot on the stove, a swirl of familiar spices enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the vibrant streets of Delhi. This Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is a heartwarming dish that seamlessly marries comfort with simplicity, perfect for those busy weeknights when cooking feels daunting. With its mildly spiced, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this recipe is a family-friendly favorite sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The best part? You can set it and forget it, allowing flavors to develop while you focus on your day. Whether paired with fluffy rice or warm Naan, this is the dish that will revive your love for homemade meals. Ready to dive into a comforting bowl of happiness? Let’s get cooking! Why is Indian Butter Chicken a Must-Try? Unforgettable Flavors: This creamy Indian Butter Chicken bursts with flavor, thanks to the perfect blend of spices and herbs that dance on your palate. Easy Preparation: With a slow cooker, you can effortlessly whip up this dish, allowing you to multitask while dinner simmers. Family-Friendly: Its mild spice level makes it appealing for even the pickiest eaters, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it. Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in a wrap, or with warm Naan for a customizable meal experience. Health-Conscious Choices: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, it’s both comforting and nutritious, putting it on par with other wholesome dishes like Garlic Butter Steak or Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Get ready to embrace homemade goodness! Indian Butter Chicken Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create this delightful dish! For the Sauce Yellow Onions – Provides flavor and sweetness. Substitute with shallots for a milder taste. Tomato Sauce – Forms the base of the sauce, giving moisture and flavor. Substitute with crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture. Tomato Paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce. Skip if fresh tomatoes are used, but adjust for consistency. Lemon Juice – Adds acidity and freshness. Substitute with lime juice for a different citrus flavor. Garlic Cloves – Enhances flavor profile through pungency. Powdered garlic can be used if fresh is unavailable. Fresh Ginger – Contributes warmth and complexity. Powdered ginger can replace fresh if needed. Curry Powder – Provides the essential spice mix; use mild for less heat. Consider experimenting with different curry blends. Garam Masala – Adds aroma and depth. Substitute with a homemade blend of common spices if unavailable. Fine Salt – Necessary for flavor enhancement. Adjust based on dietary needs. For the Chicken Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast – Main protein, tender when cooked. Can substitute with thighs for more flavor. Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and color. Substitute with any bell pepper or omit for a simpler profile. Carrots – Adds texture and sweetness. Substitute with peas or zucchini for variation. For Creaminess Salted Butter – Richness in sauce. Vegan butter or ghee can be substituted for a dairy-free version. Plain Greek Yogurt – Gives creamy texture; can use dairy-free yogurt for lactose-free. Opt for coconut yogurt for a vegan alternative. Half-and-Half – Adds creaminess; substitute with full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free. This Indian Butter Chicken recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your family-friendly meal rotation! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Begin by preparing your slow cooker. Layer the sliced yellow onions at the bottom, allowing them to create a flavorful base for your Indian Butter Chicken. This step enhances the dish with sweetness as the onions caramelize. Ensure your slow cooker is set up on a stable countertop, ready for the magic of slow cooking. Step 2: Mix the Chicken and Vegetables In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed boneless skinless chicken breast, diced red bell pepper, and sliced carrots. Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Sprinkle in the curry powder, garam masala, and salt, then mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well coated. This blend of fresh produce and spices forms the heart of your rich butter chicken sauce. Step 3: Layer the Mixture in the Cooker Carefully pour the chicken and vegetable mixture over the onions in the slow cooker, ensuring even coverage. Place pats of salted butter on top of the mixture, allowing it to melt and enrich the sauce as it cooks. This step is vital for achieving the creamy consistency characteristic of a classic Indian Butter Chicken. Step 4: Cook the Dish Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on high for 4.5 hours or on low for 6.5 hours. During the cooking time, the chicken will become tender, infusing the sauce with flavors from the spices. You’ll know it’s done when chicken pieces are fully cooked and easily shred with a fork, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas. Step 5: Add Creaminess After Cooking Once the cooking time is complete, remove the lid and stir the mixture to combine the melted butter with the sauce. Let it cool for about 5–10 minutes, which is essential to prevent curdling. Gradually add the plain Greek yogurt and half-and-half, stirring gently to incorporate these ingredients and create that creamy, dreamy texture that defines your Indian Butter Chicken. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Scoop generous portions of your Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken into bowls, serving it hot over fluffy rice or with warm Naan. For an inviting presentation, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This simple yet satisfying dish brings warmth and comfort to your family table, making every meal delightful. What to Serve with Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken The warmth of Indian spices and creamy goodness deserves delightful companions that elevate your meal experience. Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This classic pairing soaks up all the rich sauce, allowing each bite to deliver creamy satisfaction. Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, Naan is perfect for dipping into the luscious butter chicken sauce, adding a comforting texture to each mouthful. Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt dip that brings a fresh contrast to the dish’s rich spices, raita enhances the balance of flavors beautifully. Roasted Cauliflower: Background notes of earthy sweetness from roasted cauliflower pair nicely with the complex spice profile, adding depth to the meal. Saag Paneer: This spinach and cheese dish introduces a vibrant green element, delivering a nutritious balance to the rich Indian Butter Chicken. Together, they create a colorful, satisfying spread. Chickpea Salad: A refreshing salad with chickpeas, tomatoes, and onions adds a crunchy and tangy element that contrasts wonderfully with the smooth chicken. It’s like a bright reminder of summer with each bite. Mango Lassi: This creamy yogurt drink offers a sweet, fruity flavor that complements the savory depth of the butter chicken, making for a delightful pairing that quenches your thirst. Carrot Halwa: For dessert, this sweet, rich Indian pudding made from grated carrots provides a warming, indulgent finish to your meal while highlighting traditional flavors. Indian Butter Chicken Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your Indian Butter Chicken experience! Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt and full-fat coconut milk instead of Greek yogurt and half-and-half for a creamy yet dairy-free version. You’ll achieve that luscious texture while keeping it suitable for lactose-sensitive folks. Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu to create a protein-packed, meatless dish. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the same rich, flavorful sauce without meat! Slow Cooker to Stovetop: If you prefer a quicker option, coax those beautiful flavors on your stovetop. Just sauté the onions and spices before adding the chicken, then simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Spicy Kick: Love heat? Toss in some red chili flakes or fresh jalapeños for an extra punch. This is a wonderful way to personalize your dish, turning the mild comfort into an exhilarating feast! Sweet Twist: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to mellow the spices and add depth. This slight sweetness beautifully balances the savory elements, reminiscent of some regional variations. Creamy Coconut: Swap out the half-and-half for full-fat coconut milk to make a richer sauce with a tropical flair. This variation will delight your taste buds and remind you of a sunny getaway. Flavor Boost: Incorporate additional spices like cumin or cardamom for added aromatic complexity. These spices can take the flavor profile to a new level, making every bite an adventure. As you can see, the possibilities are endless with this adaptable dish! And if you’re ever in the mood for something different, why not try pairing it with a comforting side like Garlic Butter Steak or a lighter option like Garlic Parmesan Chicken? Get creative, and let your tastes lead the way! Expert Tips for Indian Butter Chicken Yogurt Timing: Avoid curdling by mixing in Greek yogurt and half-and-half only after letting the dish cool slightly. Prep in Advance: Stack ingredients by prepping vegetables and spices a day ahead to streamline your cooking process. Choose Your Chicken Wisely: Boneless thighs offer more flavor than breasts; consider this substitution for a richer dish. Spice Control: If cooking for kids, opt for a mild curry powder and keep other spicy ingredients out. Flavor Enhancements: Add a touch of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime just before serving for a bright, zesty finish. Servings Storage: Refrigerate leftovers and remember, this Indian Butter Chicken can freeze well for up to 3 months! How to Store and Freeze Indian Butter Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, you can easily enjoy the deliciousness of Indian Butter Chicken again! Freezer: Freeze cooked curry in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for a quick meal. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to restore creaminess. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the Indian Butter Chicken a day in advance to develop flavors; it tastes even better the next day! Make Ahead Options These Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables and marinate the chicken in the spices up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply combine your prepared mixture in the slow cooker before cooking; once you’re ready to enjoy, set it to slow cook. For even more convenience, the finished dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on low heat until heated through. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have rich, creamy Indian Butter Chicken ready when you need it! Indian Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lean option that cooks into tender pieces. However, boneless chicken thighs add more flavor and can stand up better to longer cooking times. If you’re concerned about the general dryness that can come with breasts, thighs might be your best bet. How should I store leftovers of Indian Butter Chicken? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures you can enjoy the delightful flavors another day without compromising quality. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing it; this prevents moisture from forming inside the container. Can I freeze Indian Butter Chicken, and if so, how? Yes, you can freeze your Indian Butter Chicken! To do this, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it creamy. What if my butter chicken is too thick after cooking? Very good question! If you find your Indian Butter Chicken too thick, don’t fret. Simply add a little chicken broth or water, stirring well until you reach your desired consistency. Do this gently while reheating to ensure that the ingredients blend together nicely without breaking down the chicken too much. Are there any common allergies I should be aware of? When it comes to allergies, be mindful of dairy ingredients like Greek yogurt and half-and-half; these can be replaced with dairy-free options such as coconut yogurt and coconut milk for a safe alternative. If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, serve it over gluten-free rice or cauliflower rice, and use a gluten-free curry powder to keep it inclusive for everyone at the table. Is it spicy enough for children? I often make this dish with a mild curry powder to keep it family-friendly, and leave out additional spicy elements. This allows even the pickiest little eaters to enjoy a comforting meal without overwhelming heat. If your children are adventurous eaters, you could always offer a side of spiced seasonings for them to add to their taste! Creamy Indian Butter Chicken That's Family-Approved and Easy No ratings yet This Easy Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is a comforting dish that combines mild spices with a creamy sauce, making it a family favorite. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: IndianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Sauce Ingredients2 medium Yellow Onions Provides flavor and sweetness.1 cup Tomato Sauce Forms the base of the sauce.2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Concentrates the tomato flavor.2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Adds acidity and freshness.4 cloves Garlic Cloves Enhances flavor profile.1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger Contributes warmth and complexity.2 tablespoons Curry Powder Provides the essential spice mix.1 tablespoon Garam Masala Adds aroma and depth.1 teaspoon Fine Salt Necessary for flavor enhancement.Chicken Ingredients1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Main protein, tender when cooked.1 medium Red Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and color.2 medium Carrots Adds texture and sweetness.Creaminess Ingredients1/2 cup Salted Butter Richness in sauce.1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt Gives creamy texture.1/2 cup Half-and-Half Adds creaminess. Equipment slow cooker Method Preparation StepsBegin by preparing your slow cooker. Layer the sliced yellow onions at the bottom.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breast, diced red bell pepper, and sliced carrots. Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, lemon juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sprinkle in the curry powder, garam masala, and salt, mixing thoroughly.Carefully pour the chicken and vegetable mixture over the onions in the slow cooker, then place pats of salted butter on top.Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on high for 4.5 hours or on low for 6.5 hours.Once cooking is complete, stir the mixture to combine. Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes, then gradually add the Greek yogurt and half-and-half, stirring gently.Scoop generous portions of your Indian Butter Chicken into bowls, serving it hot over rice or with warm Naan, garnished with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesAvoid curdling by mixing in Greek yogurt and half-and-half only after letting the dish cool slightly. This dish can be refrigerated and frozen well for leftovers. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
