Slow Cooked Butter Chicken

This crockpot butter chicken transforms your kitchen into an Indian restaurant with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the aromatic spices to develop deep, complex flavors while keeping the chicken incredibly tender and juicy. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something impressive without hours of active cooking time.

I first made this butter chicken during a particularly hectic week when I needed something delicious that didn't require me to stand at the stove. My family was so impressed they thought I'd ordered takeout! Now it's our go to meal when we want something special without the fuss.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: 2 lbs boneless and skinless for the most tender result that won't dry out in the slow cooker
• Heavy whipping cream: ½ cup creates that signature silky texture that makes butter chicken so luxurious
• Unsalted butter: 3 tbsp gives the dish its name and creates richness
• Garlic and ginger: fresh is absolutely essential for authentic flavor
• Garam masala: 2 tsp the signature spice blend that gives butter chicken its distinctive warm flavor
• Tomato sauce: 16 oz forms the base of our sauce and provides subtle acidity
• Ground turmeric, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin: work together to create complex flavor layers
• Sugar or honey: just a touch to balance the acidity of the tomatoes
• Fresh herbs for garnish: brightens the finished dish with color and fresh flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the Flavor Base:

Combine minced garlic, fresh grated ginger, tomato sauce, and all your spices in the slow cooker. This creates the aromatic foundation that will infuse into every bite of chicken. Take your time to mix thoroughly so the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

Add the Protein:

Place your chicken thighs directly into the spice mixture ensuring each piece gets coated completely. The sauce should surround and cover the chicken entirely. Distribute the butter cubes evenly over the top of the chicken where they will slowly melt during cooking creating pockets of richness.

Slow Cook to Perfection:

Cover and set your slow cooker to HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours or LOW for 4 to 6 hours. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and be tender enough to easily shred with a fork. The slow cooking process allows the spices to bloom fully and the chicken to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Create Creamy Magic:

Carefully remove the chicken pieces and set aside momentarily. Pour in the heavy cream and stir thoroughly to create that signature velvety butter chicken sauce. The cream tempers the spices and brings everything together into a cohesive luscious sauce.

Finish the Dish:

Cut the chicken into bite sized pieces then return them to the sauce allowing them to soak up more flavor. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together perfectly. Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

My favorite part about this butter chicken is the way the garam masala blooms in the slow cooker. The first time I made this recipe my teenager who normally avoids anything remotely spiced cleaned his plate and asked for seconds. That moment turned this from just a recipe into a family tradition.

Make It Your Own

This butter chicken recipe has incredible flexibility. For a dairy free version substitute full fat coconut milk for the heavy cream and coconut oil for the butter. You'll get a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile with all the creaminess you crave.

For a spicier version add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the sauce before cooking or increase the chili powder. My husband prefers his with extra heat while I like mine more mild so I often serve additional red pepper flakes on the side.

Serving Suggestions

While traditional basmati rice is the perfect vehicle for soaking up the luxurious sauce you have plenty of options. Serve over cauliflower rice for a lower carb alternative or with quinoa for additional protein. Warm naan bread is essential for scooping up every last bit of sauce.

Add a simple side of cucumber raita to cool the palate or a quick kachumber salad of diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions dressed with lemon juice. The fresh vegetables provide a wonderful contrast to the rich butter chicken.

Storage and Reheating

This butter chicken keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days making it perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

The flavors actually improve after a day in the refrigerator as the spices have more time to meld. For freezing let the dish cool completely then transfer to freezer safe containers leaving some room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs in this butter chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they tend to dry out more easily than thighs. If using breasts, reduce the cooking time slightly (about 30 minutes less on LOW setting) and check for doneness at 165°F. For best results, use boneless chicken breasts and consider cutting them into larger chunks before cooking to help retain moisture.

→ How can I make this butter chicken dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness that complements the spices beautifully, while maintaining the creamy texture of traditional butter chicken.

→ Can I freeze leftovers of this crockpot butter chicken?

Absolutely! This dish freezes extremely well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of cream to refresh the sauce.

→ How spicy is this butter chicken and how can I adjust the heat level?

This butter chicken is mild-to-medium in spiciness. To make it milder, reduce or omit the chili powder. For a spicier version, add more chili powder or incorporate 1-2 finely chopped fresh green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also serve with a side of yogurt to help balance any heat.

→ What sides pair well with crockpot butter chicken?

Traditional pairings include basmati rice and naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice or serve with a simple cucumber raita. A side of steamed vegetables like peas or roasted cauliflower also complements the rich flavors. For a complete Indian-inspired meal, add sides like samosas or pakoras.

→ How can I thicken the sauce if it's too thin?

If your sauce is thinner than desired, you have several options. Remove the chicken and simmer the sauce uncovered on HIGH for 15-20 minutes to reduce it naturally. Alternatively, make a slurry with 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir this into the sauce and cook for 10 minutes until thickened. You can also add a little less cream initially and adjust to your preferred consistency.