Name: Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 lb boneless chicken thighs; 4 tbsp butter; 1 can crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 medium onion chopped; 4 cloves garlic minced; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

This Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is a quick twenty minute style preparation that focuses on rich sauce tender chicken and steady slow cooking while keeping the process simple and approachable for home kitchens therefore it fits easily into everyday meal planning.

Slow cooking allows the spices tomato base and cream to blend gradually while the chicken becomes soft and flavorful and this method keeps cleanup minimal and timing flexible for busy days.

I like how this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken works for regular dinners meal prep or casual gatherings because it delivers consistent results with very little hands on effort as you continue reading and see exactly how I make it.

Ingredients

Here is what I use for this recipe and each ingredient has a specific role in building the classic butter chicken flavor without overcomplicating the process.

Boneless chicken thighs: Stay tender during slow cooking and absorb the sauce deeply.
Butter: Adds richness and smooth texture to the sauce as it melts slowly.
Crushed tomatoes: Form the base of the sauce and provide balanced acidity.
Heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy finish and softens the spice profile.
Onion: Adds sweetness and body as it cooks down into the sauce.
Garlic: Enhances aroma and depth throughout the dish.
Ginger: Brings warmth and subtle freshness that defines butter chicken.
Garam masala: Provides classic Indian spice complexity.
Paprika: Adds color and mild smoky flavor.
Ground cumin: Supports earthy notes in the sauce.
Salt: Balances all flavors.
Black pepper: Adds gentle heat without overpowering the dish.

Tools You’ll Need

Slow cooker: Cooks the chicken gently and allows flavors to develop over time.
Cutting board: Used for preparing chicken onion and aromatics safely.
Chef knife: Makes clean cuts for even cooking.
Measuring spoons: Keep spice levels balanced and consistent.
Wooden spoon: Helps mix ingredients smoothly inside the cooker.

Instructions

Step 1 Prepare the Chicken

I start by cutting the chicken thighs into evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly. I season them lightly with salt and black pepper which helps build flavor from the beginning.

Step 2 Build the Sauce Base

I add crushed tomatoes chopped onion garlic and ginger directly into the slow cooker. I stir in garam masala paprika and cumin making sure the spices are evenly distributed through the tomato mixture.

Step 3 Add Chicken and Butter

I place the seasoned chicken into the sauce and gently stir to coat each piece. I scatter small cubes of butter over the top which slowly melt and enrich the sauce during cooking.

Step 4 Slow Cook

I cover the slow cooker and cook on low until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. I avoid stirring too often because steady heat helps the sauce thicken naturally.

Step 5 Finish with Cream

Near the end I pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. I let it cook briefly longer so the sauce becomes smooth creamy and evenly colored before serving.

Tips

When I want deeper flavor I toast the spices briefly in a pan before adding them. If the sauce feels too thick I add a small splash of water or cream to loosen it. I also adjust garam masala at the end if I want a stronger spice finish.

Ways to Serve

I usually serve Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken over steamed basmati rice because it absorbs the sauce perfectly. It also works well with naan for scooping and dipping. For lighter meals I pair it with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice while keeping the sauce generous.

Storage Instructions

After cooling I store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight making it even better the next day. For longer storage I freeze portions which reheat smoothly on the stovetop or microwave with a little added cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken be made ahead of time?

Yes I often make it a day ahead because the flavor improves after resting.

Is Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken spicy?

It is mild by default and you can increase heat with chili powder if desired.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes but I check earlier to avoid overcooking and dryness.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken?

Coconut milk works well and adds a slightly different but pleasant flavor.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you enjoy making this Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken as much as I do. It is reliable comforting and easy to adapt to your own taste. Save it for busy nights or relaxed weekends and let me know how it turns out for you.

Happy Cooking!