Crockpot Butter Chicken

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Butter Chicken recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd during a family gathering or just trying to make a busy weeknight dinner easier, this dish has got your back.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it do the magic while you go about your day. You’ll have a hearty meal ready when you are!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Just chop, mix, and let the slow cooker do all the work!
• Flavor-packed: The blend of spices creates a deliciously aromatic dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this creamy chicken dish—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it in the morning and come home to an inviting aroma and a hot meal waiting for you.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it with naan or over rice; either way, it’s comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this recipe—just simple, wholesome items that bring out the best flavors in your Crockpot Butter Chicken. Let’s gather what we need!

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)

For 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 Crockpot Butter Chicken recipe is flexible and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Substitute chicken thighs with boneless skinless chicken breasts or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the heat: Adjust red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference or add a dash of cayenne if you like it hot!
• Cream alternatives: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version that still tastes amazing.

How to Make Crockpot Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add your oil and sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until they turn golden. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Once fragrant, stir in those beautiful spices along with the tomatoes before transferring everything to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Next, it’s time to prep your chicken! Trim any large pieces of fat from those thighs but leave some for flavor—trust me on this! Place them in the slow cooker and give them a good stir so they’re coated in that fantastic sauce. Arrange them in a single layer with the smooth side down. Cover it up and let your crockpot work its magic on high for 2-1/2–4 hours or low for 4–6 hours.

Step 3: Blend the Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the crockpot and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Now comes one of my favorite parts: blending! Use an immersion blender right in the slow cooker or transfer the sauce to a regular blender to purée until smooth. This step makes all the difference—it creates that creamy texture we all crave.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Return that velvety sauce back into the slow cooker along with those yummy pieces of chicken. Stir in butter and heavy cream until everything is combined beautifully—it’s going to be heavenly! If you’re using cilantro, now’s the time to toss it in as well.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Finally, serve this delightful dish hot alongside warm naan or fluffy rice. Trust me; everyone will be asking for more!

With these steps completed, you’ll have a scrumptious Crockpot Butter Chicken ready to enjoy! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Butter Chicken

Making Crockpot Butter Chicken is a breeze, but these tips will help you take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. If possible, buy whole spices and grind them just before use for that authentic taste.

• Don’t skip the browning: Sautéing the onion, garlic, and ginger before adding them to the slow cooker develops a deep, caramelized flavor that elevates your sauce.

• Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. On the other hand, if you love a bit of spice, feel free to add more!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your dish to sit for about 10-15 minutes after cooking lets all the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s worth the wait!

• Make it creamy with coconut milk: For a dairy-free alternative, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. This will keep your dish rich while accommodating different dietary preferences.

How to Serve Crockpot Butter Chicken

Serving Crockpot Butter Chicken can be as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this flavorful dish that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds not only color but also a bright flavor that complements the richness of the butter chicken.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the dish and balances out its richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Naan: Soft and fluffy naan is perfect for scooping up butter chicken. You can warm it on a skillet or in the oven for an extra touch.

• Basmati rice: The fragrant aroma and fluffy texture of basmati rice make it an ideal accompaniment, soaking up all that delicious sauce.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like cauliflower or carrots provide a lovely contrast in both texture and flavor while adding nutritional value.

• Cucumber raita: This cooling yogurt-based side made with cucumbers and mint helps balance out any heat from the spices and adds a refreshing element to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Crockpot Butter Chicken is sure to be a hit at any dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Crockpot Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. You can whip up a batch in advance and store it for later, ensuring that you always have something flavorful on hand!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep the chicken and sauce separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Let the Crockpot Butter Chicken cool before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe container and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common 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 substitute chicken breasts for thighs. However, keep in mind that thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender during cooking.

How long does Crockpot Butter Chicken last in the fridge?

Crockpot Butter Chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just be sure it’s in a sealed container!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer.

What should I serve with Crockpot Butter Chicken?

Serve your Crockpot Butter Chicken with warm naan bread or over fluffy rice for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Can I adjust the spice level of my Crockpot Butter Chicken?

Definitely! You can increase or decrease the red pepper flakes according to your taste preference. Feel free to customize it as you like!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Crockpot Butter Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with rich flavors that bring warmth to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or sharing it with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!