Crockpot Butter Chicken

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish that practically cooks itself, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Crockpot Butter Chicken! This recipe has become a staple in our home, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The best part? It’s so easy to make, and the flavors are simply out of this world. You’ll be amazed at how tender the chicken becomes, bathed in a rich and creamy sauce that you’ll want to savor until the last bite.

Crockpot Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine coming home after a long day to a warm kitchen filled with the inviting aroma of spices and simmering goodness. Trust me, your loved ones will gather around the table, eager to dig in. Plus, it pairs beautifully with naan and rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work. No complicated steps here!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The creamy sauce and tender chicken are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time! Just set your slow cooker in the morning and come home to dinner ready to go.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have on hand.
• Leftover Delight: If there are any leftovers (which is rare!), they taste even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one plays a vital role in creating that incredible flavor profile we all love about Crockpot Butter Chicken.

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or olive oil)
• 1 large yellow onion (finely diced (1-1/2 cups))
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste (see note 1)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1-1/4 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1-1/4 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1-1/4 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 1-1/4 teaspoons salt
• 2-1/4 teaspoons garam masala (see note 2)
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (or crushed; fire-roasted is delicious)

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (see note 3)

Finishing Touches

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (sliced into tablespoons)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup finely chopped cilantro (optional)
• Naan (warmed, for serving, see note 4)
• Cooked rice (for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your preferences or what you have available.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer white meat, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat or add some curry powder for a different flavor twist.
• Creamy alternatives: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter version with tropical flair.

How to Make Crockpot Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add your choice of oil—coconut oil brings a nice touch of sweetness! Once it’s hot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until golden brown. This step is crucial as it enhances their natural sweetness and sets a flavorful base for your sauce. After about 3–6 minutes, sprinkle in all those aromatic spices and stir constantly until they become fragrant—about 1–3 minutes. Then stir in those lovely diced tomatoes, scraping up any bits from the bottom of your pan before allowing it to cool slightly. Transfer this fragrant mixture into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Now it’s time for the star of our show—chicken thighs! Trim away any large pieces of fat but leave some for flavor. Add them to your slow cooker and give everything a good stir so that each piece gets coated in that delicious sauce. Arrange those thighs smoothly side down for even cooking. Cover and let your Crockpot work its magic on high for 2-1/2–4 hours or low for 4–6 hours until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 3: Blend Your Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Now comes my favorite part—using an immersion blender right in your slow cooker! Blend until smooth; this step makes all the difference in achieving that silky texture we adore in butter chicken.

Step 4: Finish It Off

Return that beautifully blended sauce back into your slow cooker along with those delightful chunks of chicken. Stir in sliced butter and heavy cream until everything is fully combined and smooth. The richness from both will elevate this dish beyond belief!

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Finally, sprinkle in some fresh cilantro if you’re using it, adjusting seasonings as needed before serving hot with warmed naan and fluffy rice.

Enjoy every savory bite of your homemade Crockpot Butter Chicken!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Butter Chicken

Creating the perfect Crockpot Butter Chicken is easy with a few simple tips to enhance flavor and texture!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavor of your dish significantly. They release more essential oils, resulting in a richer taste and aroma.
• Sear the chicken: While this recipe skips the step, searing chicken thighs before adding them to the slow cooker can add an extra layer of flavor through caramelization.
• Adjust the heat: If you love a bit of spice, don’t hesitate to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or garam masala. Tailor it to your taste!
• Let it rest: Allowing your butter chicken to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking can help the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.
• Make it ahead: This dish reheats wonderfully! Consider making it a day in advance; the flavors will deepen overnight in the fridge.

How to Serve Crockpot Butter Chicken

Serving Crockpot Butter Chicken is as delightful as making it! With just a few thoughtful touches, you can impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle adds vibrant color and a fresh burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with rich sauces.
• Squeeze of lime: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving brightens up the dish with acidity, balancing out the creaminess.
• Toasted cashews or almonds: Add some crunch by sprinkling toasted nuts on top for a lovely textural contrast.

Side Dishes

• Naan: Warm naan bread is perfect for scooping up all that luscious sauce. You can choose plain, garlic, or even stuffed varieties for extra flavor!
• Basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice provides a fragrant base that complements the bold flavors of butter chicken while soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Roasted vegetables: A side of simply roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini adds color and nutrients, creating a balanced meal.
• Cucumber raita: This cool yogurt sauce (made with dairy-free yogurt if needed) helps balance the spice levels and adds a refreshing touch to your plate.

Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Butter Chicken adventure! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Crockpot Butter Chicken is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, as it keeps well and tastes even better the next day. Here’s how you can store, freeze, and reheat this delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to leave some space for expansion as the sauce freezes.
• Label containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crockpot Butter Chicken that might help you out!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Crockpot Butter Chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, keep in mind that they may dry out more easily, so monitor cooking times closely.

How do I make Crockpot Butter Chicken spicier?

To add more heat to your Crockpot Butter Chicken, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced green chilies. You can also serve it with a spicy chutney on the side!

Can I make Crockpot Butter Chicken dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a creamy texture without dairy.

What should I serve with Crockpot Butter Chicken?

Crockpot Butter Chicken pairs wonderfully with naan bread or steamed rice. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Butter Chicken is truly special because it combines rich flavors with an effortless cooking method that fits perfectly into any busy lifestyle. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home! So gather your ingredients and let your slow cooker work its magic—happy cooking!