If you’ve been searching for an incredibly flavorful and comforting meal that requires minimal hands-on time, this Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken Recipe is the answer to all your dinner prayers. Rich, velvety, and packed with vibrant Indian spices, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, satisfying feast that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro looking for a fuss-free favorite, this crockpot recipe delivers authentic taste with effortless charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, coming together to create a brilliant balance of texture, aroma, and taste. From the fragrant spices to the creamy tomato base, every element plays its part in making the dish irresistibly delicious.
- 1 cup diced onion: Adds a sweet and savory foundation that softens perfectly during cooking.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Infuses the dish with richness and helps cook the spices gently.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Brings pungency and warmth that brighten the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger: Adds zest and a slight peppery kick.
- 2½ teaspoons curry powder: Provides a deep, aromatic flavor that defines the dish.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: Offers a mild heat that balances the creaminess without overpowering.
- 2 teaspoons garam masala: Enhances with complex, toasted spices for an authentic touch.
- ½ teaspoon cumin: Lends an earthy base note that ties everything together.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Creates a tangy, luscious body for the sauce.
- 1¼ cups heavy cream, divided: Adds the signature creamy texture that smooths out the spice.
- 6 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce naturally.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce perfectly when mixed with cream.
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein that soaks up all those wonderful spices.
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish: Adds a fresh, bright finish to the dish.
- 4 cups cooked jasmine rice: The perfect fluffy bed for soaking up every bit of that creamy sauce.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Spices
Start by melting your butter in a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add diced onions, garlic, ginger, and all the carefully measured spices: curry powder, chili powder, garam masala, cumin, and salt. Cook these together until they’re deliciously fragrant and the onions are softened. This step unlocks the full depth of flavor that will define your sauce, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Blend the Sauce Base
Next, transfer the sautéed mixture to a blender. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, and ¾ cup of heavy cream to the blender. Blend everything until completely smooth and creamy. This ensures your sauce has a luxurious texture without any lumps, marrying the spices and tomatoes beautifully.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker, layering them evenly. Pour the blended sauce over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are well coated. Cook on high for 2½ to 3 hours. This gentle slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and soak in all the flavors of that heavenly sauce.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Mix the remaining ½ cup of heavy cream with cornstarch to create a smooth slurry. Stir this mixture into the crockpot sauce and continue to cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens to a perfect, creamy consistency. This step gives the dish its signature decadence and a lovely sheen.
Step 5: Finish and Prepare to Serve
Remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the sauce and stir well to coat every piece with that rich, creamy goodness. Keep everything warm as you prepare your serving accompaniments.
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top adds a burst of green freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, orange-hued sauce. The herb’s bright flavor lifts the dish and adds a lovely color contrast that makes your presentation pop. For an extra touch, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can heighten the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
Steamed jasmine rice is a classic pairing that absorbs all the buttery sauce perfectly, creating a balanced bite each time. You can also serve it alongside warm naan bread to scoop up every last bit. For a lighter side, consider cucumber raita or a simple salad with fresh greens to complement the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests with style? Serve the butter chicken over fluffy basmati rice in a shallow bowl, then garnish with chopped roasted cashews and a drizzle of extra cream. You can also layer it in a pita pocket with fresh herbs and crunchy vegetables for an unforgettable lunch. The creamy texture and bold flavor are versatile enough to inspire lots of creative presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken Recipe should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. It will keep well for up to 4 days, and flavors often deepen with rest, making your next meal just as delightful.
Freezing
This butter chicken freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it in advance. Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the butter chicken on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent the cream from separating. You can add a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much while warming.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more depth of flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed. Both cuts work wonderfully in this Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken Recipe.
Is this dish very spicy?
The chili powder adds mild heat, making the dish flavorful without overwhelming spice. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the chili powder or omit it entirely. This recipe is very customizable to your heat preference.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a lovely dairy-free version that still maintains creaminess and richness. This swap introduces a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with the spices.
Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the crockpot?
It’s not necessary for this recipe since the slow cooking tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor. The sautéing step focuses on the aromatics to build the sauce base instead.
How do I prevent the sauce from splitting during reheating?
Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often. Avoid high heat which can cause the cream to separate. Adding a small amount of cream or water during reheating can help maintain the sauce’s smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats coming home to the warmth of a creamy, spiced butter chicken that practically made itself while you were busy with other things. This Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl and makes weeknight dinners feel like a special occasion. Give it a try and discover just how effortlessly delicious homemade Indian cooking can be!
Print
Creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Halal
Description
This creamy and flavorful Butter Chicken recipe is made easy with the help of a slow cooker. Tender chicken breasts are simmered in a rich tomato and cream sauce infused with aromatic spices, making a comforting dish perfect to serve over jasmine rice. Ready in just under 4 hours, it’s a convenient and delicious Indian-inspired meal for family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Sauce and Chicken
- 1 cup diced onion (1 small onion)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2½ teaspoons curry powder
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 6 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 pounds large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5 to 6 breasts)
- 1¼ cups heavy cream, divided and at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For Serving
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 4 cups cooked jasmine rice, prepared according to package directions
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a sauté pan over medium-high heat, melt the butter and sauté the diced onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, chili powder, garam masala, cumin, and salt until fragrant and the onions are softened.
- Blend Sauce: Transfer the cooked aromatics to a blender. Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and ¾ cup of the heavy cream. Blend everything until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy.
- Cook Chicken in Slow Cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the blended sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-covered. Cook on high for 2½ to 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Thicken the Sauce: Mix the remaining ½ cup of heavy cream with the cornstarch to make a slurry. Add this mixture to the sauce in the slow cooker and stir well until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Shred and Rewarm: Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the slow cooker. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the thickened sauce and warm through.
- Serve: Serve the butter chicken hot over cooked jasmine rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt, but add yogurt at the end to prevent curdling.
- If you prefer more heat, adjust the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead; it tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use gluten-free cornstarch to keep this recipe gluten-free.
- For a creamier texture, some recipes add cashew paste or ground almonds to the sauce.
