Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful curry sauce made from tomatoes and cream. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The slow cooker does the hard work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply add the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices creates a mouthwatering taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, with naan, or even as a filling for wraps.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to satisfy both adventurous eaters and those who prefer classic flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Mixing Bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: The heart of this recipe; it ensures even cooking and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining spices and marinating the chicken before cooking.

Ingredients

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is made with tender, perfectly seasoned chicken and a rich curry sauce made with tomato and cream. This combination is nothing short of mouthwateringly delicious and so easy to make—the slow cooker does all the work.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 lbs chicken breasts (or thighs cut into 2-inch cubes)
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 14 oz tomato sauce
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

How to Make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing together the yogurt, ginger, garlic powder, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, red chili powder, paprika, and salt in a bowl.
– Add the chicken pieces to the marinade.
– Ensure each piece is well coated.
– Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
– Heat olive oil and butter on high until melted.
– Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Once onions are ready:
– Stir in minced garlic and fresh ginger until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
– Add sugar, tomato sauce, evaporated milk, heavy cream, marinated chicken, ground cumin, garam masala, paprika, red chili powder, and salt.

Step 4: Cook

Cover your slow cooker:
– Set it on low heat for about 7 hours or high heat for about 4 hours.
– Stir occasionally if possible.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked:
– Shred any large pieces of chicken if desired.
– Serve hot over rice or with naan bread. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Butter Chicken!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice absorbs the rich curry sauce, creating a perfect balance.
• Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice complements the spices in the butter chicken.

With Bread

• Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy naan is ideal for scooping up the flavorful sauce.
• Roti or Chapati: Whole wheat roti or chapati adds a wholesome element while being great for dipping.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: A light and healthy side that adds color and nutrition to your meal.
• Sauteed Spinach: Cooked with garlic, sautéed spinach enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

As a Wrap

• Butter Chicken Wrap: Use naan or roti to make a wrap filled with butter chicken and fresh vegetables for a portable meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

To ensure your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken turns out flavorful and tender, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Quality Chicken: Choosing fresh, high-quality chicken breasts or thighs ensures better flavor and tenderness.
• Marinate Overnight: Letting the chicken marinate in yogurt and spices overnight deepens the flavors.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the level of heat by adjusting red chili powder according to your taste preference.
• Layer Ingredients Wisely: Place onions at the bottom of the slow cooker before adding other ingredients for even cooking.
• Add Cream at the End: Stir in heavy cream towards the end of cooking for a rich, creamy texture without curdling.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Butter Chicken can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Basmati Rice: Aromatic rice that perfectly soaks up the curry sauce.
2. Garlic Naan: Flavorful bread brushed with garlic butter, excellent for dipping.
3. Cucumber Raita: A refreshing yogurt dip that cools down spicy flavors.
4. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing adds freshness.
5. Roasted Cauliflower: Spiced roasted cauliflower brings an extra layer of flavor and texture.
6. Mango Chutney: Sweet mango chutney provides a delightful contrast to the savory butter chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Butter Chicken can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Chicken breasts are leaner than thighs, which can lead to dryness. Opt for thighs for a juicier result.
• Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken in yogurt can result in less flavor. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcooking the sauce: Cooking too long can make the sauce too thick or uneven. Check doneness after 6-7 hours on low.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s taste is different. Always taste your dish and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient liquid can cause burning. Ensure you have enough tomato sauce and cream in your recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow to cool before sealing; this helps prevent condensation.

Freezing Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date; this helps keep track of freshness.

Reheating Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium heat, stir frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of water or cream if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Butter Chicken that might help you master this delicious dish.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Butter Chicken?

You can pair it with rice, naan bread, or roasted vegetables. Each option complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Can I make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and use dairy-free yogurt for marination.

How spicy is Slow Cooker Butter Chicken?

The spice level depends on how much chili powder you add. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice and adjust according to taste.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Butter Chicken?

Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite spices or add vegetables for extra nutrition. We encourage you to give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!