Crockpot Butter Chicken: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, then you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Butter Chicken: A Simple & Delicious Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. The rich and creamy sauce paired with tender chicken makes it a hit at family dinners and busy weeknights alike. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you attend to other things.

Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s packed with aromatic spices that create a warm atmosphere in your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready without the fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy sauce and tender chicken—no complaints here!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in the morning and let your crockpot do the work. Perfect for busy days!
• Endless Flavor: The combination of spices creates a deeply flavorful dish that warms your soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Crockpot Butter Chicken, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated

For the Sauce:

• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (13.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Spices:

• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Finishing Touches:

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked basmati rice (for serving)
• Naan bread (for serving)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless thighs for a juicier option or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition.
• Change up the heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance—more for heat lovers or less for those who prefer milder flavors.
• Coconut-free alternative: Substitute coconut milk with almond milk or another non-dairy option if you’re avoiding coconut.

How to Make Crockpot Butter Chicken: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Onions

First up, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, which adds depth to our dish.

Step 2: Add Garlic & Ginger

Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant but be careful not to let them burn; we want that lovely aroma without any bitterness!

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Now it’s time to add our cubed chicken! Toss it into the skillet and cook until lightly browned on all sides. If necessary, work in batches so every piece gets that golden touch—this enhances both flavor and texture.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Stir in tomato paste along with all those wonderful spices: garam masala, curry powder, paprika, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes while stirring constantly; this helps bloom the spices and releases their essential oils.

Step 5: Simmer with Tomatoes & Broth

Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth next! Bring everything to a simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these bits are full of flavor!

Step 6: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Carefully transfer this aromatic mixture to your slow cooker. Make sure to scrape every bit from that skillet—we don’t want to leave any deliciousness behind!

Step 7: Add Coconut Milk

Now pour in that creamy coconut milk! This will give us that rich texture we love in butter chicken.

Step 8: Cook Low & Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours—whichever works best for you! When done, chicken should be cooked through and tender.

Step 9: Finish with Cream & Lemon Juice

About half an hour before serving time, stir in heavy cream and lemon juice. This final touch balances out all those spices beautifully!

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving hot over basmati rice with naan bread on the side. Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal—it’s bound to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Butter Chicken: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

This recipe is not only simple to make, but with a few pro tips, you can elevate it even more!

• Sear the Chicken: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor. This step caramelizes the meat and brings out a richer taste in the final dish.

• Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Opting for full-fat coconut milk creates a creamier sauce that perfectly complements the spices. It adds richness without the need for additional heavy cream.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. Tasting as you go will help you find the perfect balance for your palate.

• Cook Low and Slow: For maximum tenderness, cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and results in succulent, fall-apart chicken.

• Stir in Fresh Ingredients at the End: Adding lemon juice and heavy cream towards the end of cooking preserves their fresh flavors and ensures that they don’t lose potency during long cooking times.

How to Serve Crockpot Butter Chicken: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

Serving this delightful dish is just as important as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present your crockpot butter chicken beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portions, enhancing the dish’s vibrant flavor.

Side Dishes

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a classic pairing that soaks up all that delicious sauce, making every bite satisfying.
• Naan Bread: Soft naan is perfect for scooping up butter chicken, adding a delightful texture contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables provides a healthy complement, adding color and nutrients to your meal.
• Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt-based side with cucumber and mint balances out the spices in butter chicken perfectly.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this comforting Crockpot Butter Chicken! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Butter Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! It not only saves time during busy weekdays but also allows flavors to deepen, making it even more delicious when reheated.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the butter chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents, then freeze.
• It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen butter chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use different types of chicken for the Crockpot Butter Chicken: A Simple & Delicious Recipe?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully, you can also use thighs for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.

How long can I store leftovers from my Crockpot Butter Chicken: A Simple & Delicious Recipe?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for later enjoyment!

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more cayenne pepper or incorporating some chopped green chilies. Start with small amounts and taste as you go.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Definitely! You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly since these ingredients will require less time to cook.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this rich and creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re prepping it ahead of time or serving it fresh from your slow cooker, I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to let me know how much you loved it!

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