Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot Recipe

If you’re dreaming of melt-in-your-mouth chicken swimming in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce—without spending hours in the kitchen—let me introduce you to my Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot! This is the stress-free, hands-off way to enjoy one of India’s most beloved dishes, slow-cooked to perfection with layers of warm, aromatic flavor. Trust me, your kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible, and your family will be begging for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot keeps things super approachable, but each ingredient plays a vital role—from the tenderness of chicken to the creamy, spiced sauce. Don’t skip a thing; the magic is in their harmony!

• Onion (1 cup, diced): Provides sweetness and a savory backbone for the sauce.
• Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons): Adds that luxurious, rich taste and smooth body to the sauce.
• Minced Garlic (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the dish and adds irresistible aroma.
• Grated Ginger (1 tablespoon): Enlivens everything with its gentle heat and zing.
• Curry Powder (2½ teaspoons): The flavor foundation—make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Chili Powder (2 teaspoons): Kicks up the warmth without being overpowering; you can adjust for your heat level!
• Garam Masala (2 teaspoons): Signature Indian spice blend, brings aromatic complexity and depth.
• Cumin (½ teaspoon): Lends earthiness and smokiness to the sauce.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances all the flavors perfectly—don’t forget to season to taste at the end, too!
• Tomato Sauce (1 cup): Gives luscious body and that classic tang to the curry base.
• Heavy Cream (1¼ cups, divided): The creamy, dreamy element everyone adores.
• Tomato Paste (6 tablespoons): Intensifies the tomato flavor and helps the sauce cling to the chicken.
• Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce for that perfect, coat-your-rice consistency.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (3 lbs): Turns meltingly tender thanks to slow cooking. Dark meat works too if you prefer!
• Cooked Jasmine Rice (4 cups): Soaks up all that glorious sauce. Don’t swap for another rice if you love the classic pairing.
• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.

Variations

This crowd-pleasing Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot is easy to make your own—even if you need to work around dietary needs, spice preferences, or whatever’s in your fridge. Here are some fun, delicious ideas to try:

• Lighter Option: Swap half-and-half or coconut milk for some of the heavy cream for a lighter—but still super creamy—sauce.
• Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chickpeas or cubed paneer for chicken; both work beautifully with the luscious sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in handfuls of baby spinach or peas during the last 30 minutes for a pop of color and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a diced green chili if you like more heat in your Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot.

How to Make Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatic Base

Start by melting the butter in a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions, garlic, ginger, and all your ground spices: curry powder, chili powder, garam masala, cumin, and salt. Sauté everything for about 2 to 3 minutes, just until the onions grow nice and tender and the spices perfume your kitchen. This step is where all that flavor magic takes root!

Step 2: Blend the Sauce

Scoop the sautéed onion-spice mixture right into your blender. Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and ¾ cup of your heavy cream. Blend everything together until the sauce is silky-smooth and the color deepens. Taste a little—try not to swoon!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken in the Crockpot

Place your chicken breasts in the crockpot, nestling them in snugly. Pour the gorgeous blended sauce all over, making sure the chicken is covered. Set your crockpot to high and let everything cook for 2½ to 3 hours. You’re after chicken that’s juicy and tender, not dry. Don’t peek—let the magic happen!

Step 4: Cube the Chicken

Once cooked through, gently lift the chicken out of the crockpot and cut it into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces. It’ll be perfectly tender, so go slowly to keep those lovely chunks intact. This helps the chicken stay substantial in the sauce, rather than falling apart and shredding.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup heavy cream and cornstarch into a little slurry. Pour this into your simmering sauce in the crockpot, stirring to combine. You’ll see the sauce take on that luscious, clinging texture we all adore in a classic butter chicken.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Return the cubed chicken to the crockpot, gently folding them into the thickened sauce. Coat every piece and let it warm through—you’re ready to serve! Spoon over jasmine rice and crown each portion with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot triumph is yours!

How to Serve Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot

Garnishes

This is where you make your Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot pop! Scatter a generous handful of fresh cilantro over each bowl, or add thinly sliced green onions for a sweet, peppery finish. A drizzle of extra cream for a pretty swirl is always welcomes—especially if you like things extra dreamy.

Side Dishes

This dish was made for jasmine or basmati rice that soaks up every bit of that luscious sauce, but don’t stop there! Warm naan or soft flatbread is fantastic for scooping, and a side of cooling cucumber raita or Indian-style pickles adds a zesty contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this comfort classic into a modern feast! Try serving your Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot in small bowls for a party, or pile the chicken over toasted naan like open-faced sliders. You can even layer leftovers into a “butter chicken bowl” with grains, greens, and crunchy toppings for a lively lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot is your new weeknight hero. Let it cool to room temperature, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors will deepen and meld, actually making it taste even better the next day!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this butter chicken! Cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to use—so convenient for those busy nights when cravings strike hard.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a saucepan over medium-low, stirring frequently, or zap it in the microwave in short bursts (stirring in between). If the sauce is a little thick after storage, stir in a splash of cream or milk to revive that ultra-creamy texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Ready to taste the creamiest, most flavorful slow cooker curry of your dreams? I sincerely hope you give this Butter Chicken Recipe Crockpot a try—because I know it will become a regular in your weeknight lineup. It’s homestyle comfort, a hint of adventure, and a kitchen filled with the warmest, most welcome aroma you can imagine. Dig in—you deserve it!

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