Irresistibly Rich Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
A Tantalizing Indian Classic
Hola! My heart is forever intertwined with the vibrant flavors of Mexico. Growing up in Orlando, I have fond memories of my childhood spent with my mama in the kitchen, pressing warm tortillas, and learning the enchanting art of spice blending from my abuela. Those lively kitchens imparted me a truth: food is a vessel of love, laughter, and shared stories. Even though Orlando is now my home, a piece of my heart remains anchored in Oaxaca’s bustling mercados and my abuela’s bustling kitchen. My joy lies in sharing authentic Mexican recipes, from comforting tamales to swift street-style delights, all crafted with love in my home.
Slow cooker butter chicken is a creamy delight that’s effortlessly made and profoundly satisfying. The tender chicken, enveloped in an aromatic, buttery sauce, invites everyone to the table. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a rich dish that warms your soul and fills your home with mouthwatering fragrances. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy journey that brings the essence of traditional Indian cuisine right into your cozy kitchen.
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Indian
- Best Season: Year-round
What Makes This Dish Shine
- Simplicity: This slow cooker butter chicken is a breeze to prepare. Toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic!
- Flavorful Comfort: With spices like garam masala and cumin, this dish is layered with deep, warm flavors that provide comfort in every bite.
- Rich Creaminess: The addition of butter and heavy cream lends a smooth richness that elevates the dish and makes it a favorite among family and friends.
- Versatile Pairings: Serve it with fluffy rice, warm naan, or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a complete meal that will impress anyone at your table.
Essential Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Tips for Ingredient Success
- Chicken Thighs: Opt for thighs for juiciness; they hold up beautifully in slow cooking compared to chicken breasts.
- Tomato Puree: For a deeper flavor, consider using fire-roasted tomato puree.
- Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter option, substitute with coconut cream for a vegan twist without sacrificing creaminess.
- Garam Masala: Freshly ground spices make a noticeable difference in flavor; if you have it on hand, use that!
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Begin by layering the chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger at the bottom of the slow cooker. This aromatic base will infuse your chicken with all the rich flavors as it cooks.
- Next, place the chicken thighs atop the onion mixture. Ensure they are cozy and evenly arranged.
- Pour the tomato puree generously over the chicken, making sure every piece is beautifully coated.
- Sprinkle the garam masala, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over everything, then stir gently to combine all the flavors without disturbing the chicken too much.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, allowing all the ingredients to meld together perfectly.
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the butter and heavy cream, integrating them until smooth and blended throughout.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, letting it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm with rice or naan for an unforgettable meal!
Pro Pointers for Impeccable Flavor
- Cooking Time: For perfectly tender chicken, avoid opening the lid during cooking. Patience pays off!
- Creaminess Level: If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a splash of chicken broth while stirring the butter and cream.
- Allow for Rest: Let the butter chicken sit for a few minutes before serving; flavors develop and meld beautifully as it rests.
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds color but also brightens the flavor profile beautifully.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Vegan Butter Chickpeas: Substitute chicken with canned chickpeas and use coconut cream for a rich, plant-based version packed with protein.
- Mild Alternative: Reduce the spices and make this dish kid-friendly while still being flavorful; just add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
- Spicy Twist: For those who love heat, add sliced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Regional Flavors: Experiment with regional spice blends like curry powder for a slightly different flavor palette.
Perfect Pairings for Your Butter Chicken
- Wine Replacement: Serve with a refreshing mango lassi or spiced chai for a delightful beverage addition.
- Side Dishes: Accompany this delectable dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad to balance out the richness.
- Dessert: Conclude your meal with a creamy Indian sweet like kheer or cardamom-infused rice pudding for a complete dining experience.
Prepping Ahead & Freeze Options
For those busy days, you can prep your butter chicken in advance. Just follow the initial steps, combine the ingredients, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you want to freeze, let it cool completely post-cooking, then transfer to airtight containers for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan on medium heat, adding a touch of cream or broth if needed.
Serving Style for Comfort
Serve your butter chicken in a beautifully crafted bowl, and for an added touch, drizzle some extra cream over the top. Accompany it with warm naan or fluffy rice, and present it with a scattering of fresh cilantro for a pop of color. This inviting setting celebrates the dish’s rich and inviting personality.
Insider Tips for Cooking Success
- Allow for natural thickening by cooking it longer; don’t rush the beauty of slow cooking.
- Make sure to sear the garlic and ginger before placing them in the slow cooker to deepen the flavor.
- Keep all spice measurements handy; the right balance is key to creating your signature butter chicken.
Proper Storing and Reheating Techniques
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, you can gently warm the butter chicken in the microwave or stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of cream to keep the texture rich and smooth. Also, remember to stir occasionally to maintain consistency and avoid sticking!
Common Inquiries
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Sure! Just note they may dry out slightly since they’re leaner.
- Is this dish suitable for meal prep? Absolutely, it’s perfect! Just make sure to store in portion sizes.
- How spicy is this butter chicken? You can adjust the spicing levels based on your preference, making it mild or fiery.
- Can I make it gluten-free? Yes, since we’re using simple ingredients, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the spices are certified.
- How can I enhance the flavor after cooking? Adding a squeeze of fresh lime before serving can elevate the dish remarkably.
- What makes this dish different from other chicken recipes? The unique blend of Indian spices and the luxurious creamy sauce truly set it apart, making it a memorable experience.
- Can I use canned tomatoes instead of puree? Yes! Just blend them slightly before use to get a smoother texture.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 34g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.
A Note from Us
This slow cooker butter chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of warmth, comfort, and connection to those you love. Food has a powerful way of bringing us together, and this dish celebrates the cherished traditions that form family and culture through each delightful bite.
Warm Closing Thoughts
We invite you to embrace the art of home cooking with this amazing slow cooker butter chicken. As you savor the flavors and share with those you care about, remember that cooking is about creating memories and experiences. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later, and share your delightful journey through flavors with your friends! Happy cooking!
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Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 375
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-free
Description
A creamy delight effortlessly made in a slow cooker, this Butter Chicken brings rich flavors and warmth to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Layer the chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place chicken thighs atop the onion mixture.
- Pour tomato puree over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Sprinkle garam masala, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over everything, then stir gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in butter and heavy cream until smooth.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving warm with rice or naan.
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute chicken with canned chickpeas and use coconut cream.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 360
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
