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A steaming bowl of butter chicken with a rich, creamy orange sauce garnished with fresh cilantro, served on a white plate alongside rice, with a sprig of cilantro and a drizzle of sauce visible. The dish looks glossy and inviting, with tender chicken pieces coated in the velvety sauce.

Crockpot Butter Chicken

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Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken is a comforting and flavorful slow-cooker dinner that combines tender chicken with a rich, luscious sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this Indian-inspired dish pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or vegetables. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it offers a wholesome and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Cooked rice or naan for serving

Instructions

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken chunks with salt, pepper, and half of the garam masala. Add a pinch of cumin and paprika if desired. Place the seasoned chicken into the crockpot.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, minced garlic, remaining spices, and butter until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and infused with the flavorful sauce. About 15 minutes before the end of cooking, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamier texture.
  4. Once cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot over cooked rice or naan bread, optionally pairing with side dishes like fresh spinach and tomato pasta.

Notes

  • Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier results, but chicken breasts work well too.
  • Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra spice if desired.
  • Stir in additional coconut milk or cream before serving for extra creaminess.
  • Adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences, modifying paprika and garam masala quantities accordingly.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low / 3-4 hours on high
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Indian-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 380 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg