Print

Crockpot Butter Chicken Recipe

4.6 from 107 reviews

This Crockpot Butter Chicken recipe is a creamy, flavorful Indian-inspired dish made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Tender chicken breasts are simmered in a rich tomato and butter sauce infused with aromatic spices, then finished with heavy cream for a velvety texture. Perfect served over rice or with warm naan, it’s a comforting meal that requires minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Spices

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce Base

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce

Finishing Ingredients

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Serving Suggestion

  • Naan or rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Place the butter, diced onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger into the crockpot, creating a flavorful foundation for the dish.
  2. Add the chicken and season: Lay the chicken breasts on top of the onion mixture, then season evenly with garam masala, paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse the meat with spices.
  3. Add tomato sauce: Pour the tomato sauce over the chicken, making sure the chicken is well covered to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
  4. Slow cook the chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender and fully cooked through.
  5. Shred and finish: Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, then stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
  6. Serve: Spoon the butter chicken over a bed of rice or with warm naan bread, garnished with fresh cilantro for a touch of brightness.

Notes

  • For a plant-based version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, replace butter with coconut oil, and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and spices, depending on preference.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: Butter Chicken, Crockpot Butter Chicken, Slow Cooker Indian Recipe, Easy Butter Chicken, Indian Main Course, Chicken Curry