Crockpot Butter Chicken is the easiest way to enjoy restaurant-quality butter chicken at home without spending hours in the kitchen. This slow cooker recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or any time you crave comforting Indian food. In this guide, you’ll learn all the tips, tricks, and steps to make Crockpot Butter Chicken like a pro.
Looking for more creamy, comforting dishes? Discover our Million Dollar Chicken Casserole a cheesy, indulgent bake that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Crockpot Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Crockpot Butter Chicken brings bold flavors, tender chicken, and a sauce so good you’ll want to lick the bowl
Ingredients
▢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
▢2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs see note 3
▢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
Instructions
- Heat a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the oil, and once hot, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger, stirring occasionally, until golden (3–6 minutes). Add all the spices and stir constantly for 1–3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the tomatoes, scraping the bottom of the pan, and let the mixture cool slightly. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Trim large pieces of fat and gristle from chicken thighs but leave some fat for added flavor. Add the chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat in the sauce. Arrange thighs in a single layer, smooth side down. Cover and cook on high for 2-1/2–4 hours or low for 4–6 hours, until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove the chicken and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Use an immersion blender (or transfer sauce to a regular blender) to purée the sauce until smooth (see Note 5).
- Return blended sauce to the slow cooker. Stir in the butter and heavy cream until fully combined and smooth.
- Add chopped chicken back into the sauce. Stir in cilantro (if using) and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with rice and naan.
Notes
Note 1: Pre-prepared ginger and garlic paste from the refrigerated section saves time.
Note 2: Garam masala is critical for flavor—don’t skip it!
Note 3: Chicken thighs are ideal for this dish. They stay juicy and tender, unlike chicken breasts, which can become tough.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions: Use any type of rice, even microwaveable, for ease. Warm naan by spraying with cooking oil and lightly grilling over medium heat until charred, flipping once. Keep warm wrapped in a towel. You can also warm naan in a skillet, toaster, or microwave under a damp towel.
Note 5: Blending Tip: Let the sauce cool slightly before blending to avoid overflow or burns. If using a blender not designed for hot liquids, secure the lid with a towel to contain steam.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding water or cream to adjust the sauce thickness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 640kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 3329g
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10.83g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 423g
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Butter Chicken
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
One of the biggest advantages of using a crockpot is convenience. You can prep the ingredients in the morning, set the slow cooker, and come home to a fully cooked, aromatic meal. Unlike stovetop recipes, this method allows flavors to meld naturally while you focus on other tasks. Plus, it’s hands-off cooking that still delivers rich, restaurant-style taste.
Creamy, Comforting, and Flavorful
Crockpot Butter Chicken combines the perfect balance of creaminess, buttery richness, and subtle spice. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the tomato and spice blend, resulting in a sauce that’s thick, velvety, and bursting with flavor. It’s comfort food at its finest, ideal for pairing with rice, naan, or your favorite side dishes.
Family-Friendly Dish with Authentic Indian Spices
Even if your family isn’t used to Indian food, this recipe is a hit. The spice blend is aromatic without being overpowering, making it approachable for kids and adults alike. Garlic, ginger, garam masala, and cumin create that classic butter chicken flavor, while the slow cooking process ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Crockpot Butter Chicken
Chicken Options (Breasts vs Thighs)
The choice of chicken affects both flavor and texture. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal because they stay tender and juicy during slow cooking. Chicken breasts can also work, but they tend to dry out faster, especially if cooked on high. For maximum flavor, consider lightly searing the chicken before adding it to the crockpot—this step enhances the richness of the sauce.
Sauce Ingredients (Butter, Tomato, Cream, Spices)
The sauce is the heart of Crockpot Butter Chicken. Key components include:
- Butter: Adds richness and depth. Unsalted butter lets you control salt levels.
- Tomato Base: Crushed or pureed tomatoes create a vibrant, slightly tangy sauce.
- Cream or Yogurt: Heavy cream or full-fat yogurt provides the signature velvety texture.
- Spices: Garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder deliver authentic Indian flavor. Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the taste profile further.
Pantry Staples That Make the Recipe Work
Don’t overlook everyday ingredients that enhance the final dish:
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Honey or sugar to balance acidity from tomatoes.
- Lemon juice added at the end brightens the sauce.
- Optional ingredients: Fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) or chili flakes for extra depth.
Tips for Ingredient Preparation
- Chop garlic and ginger finely or make a paste to distribute flavors evenly.
- Marinate chicken with a small portion of spices and yogurt for at least 30 minutes to tenderize meat and boost flavor.
- Measure spices ahead of time to make assembly easier in the morning or before work.
Looking for another comforting, creamy dish? Discover our Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup a hearty, flavorful soup that’s perfect for cozy dinners.
How to Make Crockpot Butter Chicken (Step by Step)
Prepare and Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken for maximum flavor. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Add a few tablespoons of yogurt, half of your spice blend (garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder), and a pinch of salt. Mix well to coat all the pieces. Marinate for at least 30 minutes—or up to 2 hours—to tenderize the meat and infuse it with spices.
Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Once the chicken is marinated, place it into the crockpot along with crushed tomatoes, butter, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Make sure the chicken is mostly submerged in the sauce to allow slow cooking to create a creamy, flavorful result. This step ensures your Crockpot Butter Chicken has consistent flavor in every bite.
Cooking Times (Low vs High Settings)
Set your slow cooker to low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Cooking on low allows the flavors to develop fully, while high is great when time is limited. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this can extend the cooking time and reduce sauce thickness. By the end of the cooking period, the chicken should be tender and the sauce thickened.
Finishing Touches – Adding Cream and Garnishes
About 15–20 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream or full-fat yogurt to achieve the iconic velvety texture. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance acidity. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for freshness and a burst of color. Serve immediately over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread for a classic presentation.
Tips and Recipe Variations
How to Make It Dairy-Free or Lighter
If you want a lighter version of Crockpot Butter Chicken, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Both alternatives maintain a creamy texture while reducing saturated fat. For a completely dairy-free version, skip the butter and use plant-based margarine or ghee alternatives. These tweaks keep your Crockpot Butter Chicken rich and flavorful without compromising taste.
Adjusting Spice Level for Kids or Heat Lovers
Not everyone enjoys a spicy curry, so it’s easy to adjust the heat in Crockpot Butter Chicken. Reduce chili powder or paprika for a milder version perfect for kids, or add extra cayenne or red chili flakes for spice enthusiasts. Remember, spices deepen over slow cooking, so it’s better to start mild and adjust at the end if needed.
Adding Vegetables or Making It Vegetarian
For extra nutrition and color, add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or cauliflower during the last hour of cooking. For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with paneer cubes, tofu, or chickpeas. These plant-based options absorb the sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying meat-free version of Crockpot Butter Chicken.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Sear chicken briefly before adding to the crockpot for enhanced flavor.
- Stir in cream or yogurt at the very end to prevent curdling.
- Use fresh spices whenever possible for a more vibrant taste.
- If the sauce is too thin, thicken it by mixing 1–2 teaspoons of cornstarch with water and stirring it in during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
What to Serve with Crockpot Butter Chicken
Classic Pairings: Rice, Naan, and Roti
The creamy, rich sauce of Crockpot Butter Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed basmati rice. The fluffy grains soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite irresistible. Warm naan or roti is another must-have—soft and pillowy, it’s perfect for scooping up every bit of the curry. For a more filling meal, serve with a combination of rice and flatbread.
Fresh Sides and Salads That Balance the Dish
To lighten up the meal, serve Crockpot Butter Chicken with a fresh cucumber-tomato salad or lightly sautéed green beans. A tangy yogurt raita is another excellent side, providing a cool contrast to the rich, spicy sauce. These sides add crunch, freshness, and balance to the meal while complementing the creamy curry.
Creative Serving Ideas for Leftovers
Leftover Crockpot Butter Chicken can be reinvented into new dishes. Try layering it over roasted vegetables or using it as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. Another idea is to mix the leftover sauce with cooked pasta for a creamy Indian-inspired pasta dish. This versatility makes Crockpot Butter Chicken a great option for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Storing and Reheating Crockpot Butter Chicken
How to Refrigerate and Reheat Properly
After cooking, allow your Crockpot Butter Chicken to cool slightly before storing. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heat distribution.
Freezing Instructions for Long-Term Storage
If you want to enjoy Crockpot Butter Chicken later, it freezes very well. Place cooled curry in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to restore the creamy texture if needed.
Avoiding Texture Changes When Reheating
To maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency, avoid cooking at high heat during reheating. Adding a small amount of cream, yogurt, or milk while reheating can help prevent curdling. Stir gently and reheat slowly to ensure the chicken remains tender and the sauce smooth.
FAQs About Crockpot Butter Chicken
What ingredients are essential for making Crockpot Butter Chicken?
The key ingredients include boneless chicken (preferably thighs for juiciness), butter, crushed tomatoes, heavy cream or yogurt, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices such as garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder. These create the signature creamy, flavorful sauce that makes Crockpot Butter Chicken irresistible.
How long should I cook butter chicken in a crockpot for perfect tenderness?
Cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and lets the flavors meld fully. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as it can extend cooking time and affect sauce consistency.
Can I make Crockpot Butter Chicken dairy-free or lighter?
Yes! Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use plant-based butter instead of regular butter. These substitutions maintain creaminess while reducing fat and making the dish suitable for dairy-free diets.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Crockpot Butter Chicken?
Classic pairings include steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti. You can also serve it with fresh cucumber-tomato salad, sautéed vegetables, or a yogurt raita to balance the rich and creamy sauce. Leftovers can be repurposed over roasted vegetables or in wraps for versatile meals.
Conclusion – Bringing It All Together
Crockpot Butter Chicken is the ultimate slow cooker recipe for anyone craving a creamy, flavorful, and hassle-free meal. With tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic spices, it’s a dish that satisfies both beginners and seasoned home cooks. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight, a family dinner, or meal prep for the week, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time.
Don’t forget to pair it with steamed rice, warm naan, or a fresh salad to complete the meal. Try the tips, variations, and serving suggestions from this guide, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality Crockpot Butter Chicken ready to impress everyone at the table.
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Want even more delicious ideas? Check out our Pinterest page for mouthwatering recipes and kitchen tips!