Name: Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast (Thighs are preferred for tenderness.); 4 tablespoons butter (Essential for authentic butter chicken flavor.); 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes (Tomato paste can also be used for deeper flavor.); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup plain yogurt (Alternatively, a splash of cream may be used.); 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (For a creamy finish.); 1 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (Optional, to balance the tomatoes.); 2 teaspoons garam masala (Key spice for authentic flavor.); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or chili powder (Start small if adding heat.)

Description

A cozy, creamy slow cooker butter chicken that captures the rich flavors of Indian cuisine, perfect for an easy and comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast (Thighs are preferred for tenderness.)
4 tablespoons butter (Essential for authentic butter chicken flavor.)
1 large yellow onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes (Tomato paste can also be used for deeper flavor.)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup plain yogurt (Alternatively, a splash of cream may be used.)
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (For a creamy finish.)
1 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste.)
1 teaspoon sugar or honey (Optional, to balance the tomatoes.)

Spices

2 teaspoons garam masala (Key spice for authentic flavor.)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne or chili powder (Start small if adding heat.)

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Instructions

Preparation

In the bottom of your slow cooker, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger.
Pour in the tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes) plus the tomato paste.
Stir in your spices, salt, and sugar (if using).

Cooking

Add the chicken thighs or chicken breast and toss to coat.
Dot a couple tablespoons of butter over the top.
Cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or HIGH for about 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender.

Finishing Touches

When the chicken is done, stir in the yogurt slowly to avoid curdling.
Add the heavy cream or coconut milk and let it warm through for 10 to 15 minutes.
Taste and adjust salt; add a final pinch of garam masala if desired.

Serving

Serve hot with rice, naan, or your preferred side for scooping up sauce.

Notes

To store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze: Portion in containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian