Easy and Flavorful Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

© Original Recipe By The Daily Garnish ©

Easy and Flavorful Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken Recipe 🍛🔥✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a delicious Indian butter chicken that’s simple to prepare and packed with rich flavors, then this effortless butter chicken recipe is perfect for you. Using a slow cooker, you can achieve a tender, juicy, and flavorful Indian chicken dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice cook, or someone craving authentic Indian cuisine without the fuss, this slow cooker butter chicken recipe will become a regular on your dinner table.

2. Ingredients for Flavorful Indian Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• 1 cup tomato sauce or pureed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for This Flavorful Indian Chicken

Prepare the Spice Mixture

In a small bowl, combine garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

Heat the cooking oil or ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step enhances the overall flavor of your Indian butter chicken.

Add the Chicken

Transfer the sautéed mixture into your slow cooker. Add the chicken chunks and coat them with the aromatic mixture. Sprinkle the prepared spice blend over the chicken for maximum flavor infusion.

Add Tomato and Cream

Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well. Follow with heavy cream or coconut milk, creating that signature creamy texture of authentic butter chicken. Mix thoroughly.

Cook to Perfection

Set your crock-pot to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Cover and let the flavors meld, resulting in tender, flavorful Indian chicken.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal.

4. Tips for the Best Effortless Butter Chicken

• Use boneless chicken thighs for juicy, tender results.
• Adjust spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
• For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.

5. Storage Tips for Leftover Indian Butter Chicken

Transfer any leftover Indian butter chicken to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm gently on the stovetop. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months—perfect for meal prep or quick dinners.

6. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Indian Meal

Enjoy your flavorful Indian chicken with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. For an added spice kick, serve with sliced fresh chilies or a side of tangy chutney. Explore more tasty recipes like creamy spinach mushroom pasta or chewy chocolate chip cookies for sweet finishes.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – This versatile appliance can be used to reheat leftovers or prepare side dishes with ease, elevating your Indian meal experience.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Perfect for sautéing aromatics or preparing rice alongside your butter chicken.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – Make crispy naan bread or grilled vegetables to complement your dish.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Indian Butter Chicken

Can I make this Indian butter chicken gluten-free?

Yes, simply ensure that your tomato sauce and spices are gluten-free. This dish naturally doesn’t contain gluten, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

What substitutions can I use for heavy cream?

You can substitute with coconut milk, cashew cream, or Greek yogurt for a dairy-free or lower-fat option. Keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the dish’s richness slightly.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The preparation is about 15 minutes, and the slow cooking takes approximately 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. This makes it an incredibly convenient recipe for busy days.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts tend to be leaner and may dry out if overcooked. For juicy results, chicken thighs are recommended.

9. Conclusion

This easy and flavorful slow cooker Indian butter chicken recipe offers a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and aromatic flavors that will impress your family and friends. Its effortless preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend dinners. For the best results, use quality ingredients, and don’t hesitate to customize the spice levels to suit your taste. Dive into authentic Indian cuisine with minimal effort and enjoy a truly delicious meal that feels as good as it tastes.

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