Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken Recipe: A Irresistible Slow Cooker Delight 🍗🧈✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare, look no further than this creamy crockpot butter chicken recipe. This dish combines tender chicken simmered in a rich, buttery sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but ensures every bite is packed with tender, juicy flavors. Whether you call it slow cooker chicken or simply easy butter chicken, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into pieces
1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
1/4 cup butter, cubed
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Butter Chicken in a Slow Cooker

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Gather all ingredients for an easy and smooth cooking process.

Mix the Spice Blend and Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Set aside. In the slow cooker, add the tomato sauce, heavy cream, butter, onion, garlic, and spice mixture. Stir well to combine.

Add the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces into the slow cooker, ensuring they are coated evenly with the sauce mixture. Cover with the lid.

Cook the Butter Chicken

Set your Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker on low heat and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and absorb all the flavors.

Finish and Garnish

Once cooked, give the dish a gentle stir. Serve your creamy butter chicken over rice or naan, garnished with fresh cilantro. For an extra touch of richness, stir in more butter or cream as desired.

4. Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken

Using boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts can add more tenderness and flavor. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your taste, and experiment with coconut milk for a dairy-free variation that still captures the creamy essence. Additionally, preparing this dish ahead of time makes it perfect for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

5. Storage and Reheating

Leftover creamy chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to restore the richness. For longer storage, freeze the leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

6. Serving Suggestions for Creamy Butter Chicken

This flavorful easy butter chicken pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Add a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh green salad to complete the meal. For more dinner ideas, check out our savory sweet potato and ground turkey bake or our creamy smothered chicken and rice.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Crockpot Butter Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, using chicken thighs will make the dish even more tender and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What if I want a less spicy version?

Reduce or omit the garam masala and paprika, or add a bit more cream to mellow the flavors.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The prep takes about 15 minutes, and the slow cooking time ranges from 3 to 8 hours depending on your setting.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free butter to keep it creamy and vegan-friendly.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: This spacious slow cooker makes preparing our slow cooker chicken effortless. Just set it and forget it!
CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Perfect for cooking rice or any side dishes to serve alongside your butter chicken.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Chill drinks or make smoothies for a refreshing complement to your spicy dish.

9. Conclusion

This creamy crockpot butter chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines ease with flavor. The slow cooker ensures the chicken is tender and infused with aromatic spices, all in a rich, buttery sauce. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for a family dinner, this dish delivers satisfying results with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Crockpot Butter Chicken