Crockpot Indian Butter Chicken

Name: Crockpot Indian Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup coconut milk; 1/4 cup butter; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: World Table

I love making Crockpot Indian Butter Chicken because it allows me to gather all the flavors of traditional Indian cuisine in a simple, hands-off way. Just toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker work its magic. The result is a creamy, spiced chicken dish that fills my kitchen with enticing aromas. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests with minimal effort. Plus, it's great served with rice or naan to soak up that rich butter sauce!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:34:28.443Z

When I first discovered Crockpot Indian Butter Chicken, it transformed my weeknight dinner routine. The idea of simply throwing everything in a slow cooker was revolutionary for me. I remember the first time I tasted it; the blend of spices, the creaminess, and the tender chicken made me an instant fan. I found that using a combination of spices, like garam masala and turmeric, brings forward the authentic flavors that make this dish shine.

One tip I swear by is to sear the chicken for a few minutes before adding it to the crockpot. This extra step enhances the overall flavor while keeping the chicken juicy. I've served this dish on countless occasions, and it never fails to impress. The leftovers, if there are any, taste even better the next day!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, authentic Indian flavors without the hassle of traditional cooking
Creamy sauce that's perfect for soaking up with naan or rice
Flexible recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a rich and flavorful Indian Butter Chicken lies in the balance of spices used. The garam masala adds a warm, aromatic quality, while the turmeric and cumin contribute depth and earthiness. If you can't find garam masala, you can make your own blend using equal parts cinnamon, cardamom, and coriander. This flexibility allows you to adapt the dish to suit your pantry stock.

Coconut milk not only adds creaminess but also a subtle sweetness that balances the spices. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the coconut milk with low-fat yogurt. Just remember to stir in the yogurt at the end of cooking to prevent it from curdling, which could alter the texture of the sauce.

Cooking Techniques for Perfection

Searing the chicken before placing it in the crockpot develops a richer flavor and adds complexity to the dish. Aim for a golden-brown color on the chicken, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side in a medium-hot skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.

When sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger, it's essential to keep an eye on the heat so they soften without browning too much. A medium heat should suffice; cook them until they're translucent and fragrant, around 5-7 minutes. This step helps create a savory foundation for the sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your meal, serve the Indian Butter Chicken over fragrant basmati rice or alongside soft naan. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully, while naan provides a delightful way to scoop up the dish. For an extra touch, consider adding a simple side salad or cucumber raita to balance the richness of the chicken.

For a complete meal, you can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or peas during the last hour of cooking; they’ll bring color and nutrients without sacrificing texture. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the vegetables added to ensure they're tender but not overcooked.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delectable Indian dish:

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup coconut milk
1/4 cup butter
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

With these simple ingredients, you'll create a comforting meal that tantalizes the taste buds!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Crockpot Indian Butter Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to the crockpot.

Add Vegetables and Spices

In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until softened. Add a bit of salt, then pour this mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, butter, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and any additional ingredients you desire. Stir gently to combine.

Cook the Dish

Set your crockpot on low and cook for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce and stir well. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside rice or naan.

Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a bit of heat with red pepper flakes before serving. Feel free to experiment with adding vegetables like peas or bell peppers during the cooking process.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Indian Butter Chicken is a fantastic make-ahead option. Prepare everything up to the cooking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, just set your slow cooker and let it do the work. The flavors develop even more overnight, making it taste even better when reheated.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to thin it out if the sauce thickens. Alternatively, it can be reheated in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, depending on your microwave’s wattage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce turns out too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, blend a portion of the chicken and sauce until smooth, then stir it back in to achieve a richer, creamier consistency.

On the flip side, if you find your butter chicken too spicy, add a little sugar or more coconut milk to mellow the heat. Remember, it's always easier to adjust the flavors gradually, so taste as you go along to ensure it meets your preference.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

Scaling this recipe is straightforward. If you're cooking for a larger group, simply double the ingredients, ensuring your crockpot can accommodate the extra volume. Alternatively, if you’re making less, you can halve the ingredients, adjusting the cooking time slightly if using fewer chicken thighs.

For smaller households, consider making a batch and freezing half in a suitable container. The butter chicken freezes well and can be reheated for a quick meal. Just be sure to label the container with the date, so you know when it was made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, don't overcook them.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of coconut milk?

Heavy cream works well if you prefer a richer sauce, but coconut milk offers a unique flavor.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite vegetables like cauliflower or paneer.