Name: Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491469H18M11S
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken Delight 🍗🧈✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a flavorful, comforting dish that’s easy to make, our slow-cooker butter chicken recipe is the answer. This creamy chicken curry combines tender chicken, rich sauces, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in your crockpot. Whether you’re a busy parent or a home cook looking to impress, this crockpot chicken dish offers delicious convenience and irresistible taste. Say goodbye to long hours in the kitchen and hello to a savory, satisfying meal that practically makes itself.

2. Ingredients Needed for This Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free version
½ cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons butter or ghee
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Optional: serve with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal. For more quick dinner ideas, explore our easy crockpot dishes.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Creamy Chicken Curry

Prep the Chicken and Spices

Begin by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the garam masala. This will enhance the flavor right from the start.

Sear the Chicken (Optional)

If you prefer extra flavor, quickly sear the seasoned chicken in a skillet with a little oil until golden. Then transfer to the crockpot. This step is optional but adds a lovely depth to your butter chicken.

Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Add the chicken, tomato sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, remaining spices, and butter into your slow cooker. Stir everything together to evenly coat the chicken with the spices.

Cook on Low

Set your Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours. This slow simmer unlocks all the rich flavors and results in tender, flavorful chicken.

Add the Cream and Finish

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Turn the slow-cooker to warm or low and let it meld into a luscious, creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Butter Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Experience

This slow-cooker butter chicken is perfect served over fluffy basmati rice or paired with warm naan bread. For a complete meal, complement it with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables. For more flavorful sides, see our olive garden-style chicken gnocchi soup.

6. Tips to Make Your Crockpot Chicken Extra Delicious

Use fresh ginger and garlic for vibrant flavor.
Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, adding more chili powder if you like heat.
For a thicker sauce, stir in a little cornstarch slurry at the end of cooking.
Try substituting coconut milk for a dairy-free, tropical twist.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Slow-Cooker Butter Chicken

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add extra chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper to ramp up the heat. Adjust based on your spice preference.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts tend to cook faster and can become dry if overcooked. Keep an eye on the cooking time, and consider adding a little extra sauce to keep it moist.

How long does it take to prepare?

The active prep time is about 15 minutes, with a slow cooking time of 6-8 hours. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a ready-to-eat meal without the fuss.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients like gluten-free soy sauce or omit any wheat-based thickeners.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – This reliable slow cooker makes it effortless to prepare the perfect butter chicken, with even heat distribution and easy controls.
Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Use this to quickly chop garlic, ginger, and vegetables for quick prep.
CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures you have the perfect pots and pans for any kitchen task, including finishing dishes.

Investing in quality kitchen tools will elevate your cooking experience and make preparing this creamy dish even easier.

9. Conclusion

There’s no easier way to enjoy authentic, delicious butter chicken than with this slow-cooker butter chicken recipe. The slow-cooking process enhances the rich spices and creates a tender, flavorful meal that your family will love. Whether you’re serving it over rice or with naan, this crockpot chicken dish is a guaranteed hit. So, gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and indulge in a creamy, savory curry that practically cooks itself!

Crockpot Butter Chicken