Published on December 31, 2025
Ready in: 6-8 hours (slow cook) · Serves: 6 · Technique: Slow Cooker · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Quick Answer
A delicious slow cooker Butter Chicken that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table with minimal effort.
As the crisp autumn air settles over New York City and the aroma of fallen leaves fills the streets, I find myself craving comfort food, especially with Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner. One dish that always warms my heart and tantalizes my taste buds is Butter Chicken. I’ve transformed this traditional Indian favorite into a convenient slow cooker version that’s not just easy to make, but absolutely delicious.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Transform a traditional dish into a convenient slow cooker version for effortless cooking.
- Enjoy rich and vibrant flavors that will warm your heart on chilly autumn evenings.
- Perfect for meal prep; this dish freezes beautifully for busy holiday seasons.
- Rich creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with basmati rice or warm naan.
- Adjust the spice level to your preference, making it friendly for all palates.
Ingredients
This slow cooker butter chicken is made with simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Chicken and Aromatics
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Spices
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
Liquids and Finishing Touches
- 1 can (15 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
How to Make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Step-by-Step)
This slow cooker butter chicken is simple to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
In the slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. The delightful aroma of garlic mingling with ginger sets the stage for a flavorful dish.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Sprinkle the garam masala, turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chili powder over the chicken. As I mix these spices into the chicken, I can already envision the warm, vibrant colors and flavors that will develop.
Step 3: Combine the Sauces
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk, stirring gently to combine. The creamy texture of the coconut milk creates a luxurious base that complements the spices beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Butter
Add the unsalted butter – yes, it’s a generous amount because it makes everything so much better. The rich aroma of buttery goodness wafts through the kitchen as it begins to melt.
Step 5: Season and Cook
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The scent will remind you that comfort food is on its way.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, give it a good stir and taste for seasoning once more. Serve over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan and garnish generously with chopped cilantro.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the marination: While this recipe doesn’t require marinating, don’t rush the slow cooking times; they’re key for tender, flavorful chicken.
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: If your slow cooker is too full, the chicken won’t cook evenly. Stick to the specified amounts for best results.
- Not adjusting the spice: Not everyone has the same tolerance for heat! Taste and adjust the spices gradually, especially when adding chili powder.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a deeper flavor: Brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker for added depth.
- Make it extra creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or extra coconut milk just before serving for a richer sauce.
- Meal prep: This dish freezes beautifully, making it ideal for preparing ahead during busy holiday seasons.
Variations
- Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for coconut milk for a tangy twist.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Replace garam masala with curry powder if needed.
How to Serve
- Serve over fluffy basmati rice.
- Accompany with warm naan bread.
- Garnish generously with chopped cilantro.
- Pair with a side of cucumber raita for a refreshing contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance; simply add the ingredients to the slow cooker and refrigerate overnight until ready to cook.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully for up to three months, allowing for enjoyment long after the holidays have passed.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Cooking this slow cooker butter chicken reminded me of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinarily comforting. It’s a great reminder that with a little time and patience, I can transform any weeknight into a cozy dining experience.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~400 calories · 25g protein · 20g carbs · 28g fat
Cozy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In the slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Sprinkle the garam masala, turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chili powder over the chicken.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk, stirring gently to combine.
- Add the unsalted butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Before serving, give it a good stir and taste for seasoning once more. Serve over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan and garnish generously with chopped cilantro.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may dry out more easily. Thighs are recommended for their richness and tenderness.
2. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Absolutely! Butter chicken freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like it hot, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh chopped chilies. Just remember to adjust gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
4. Can I use dairy instead of coconut milk?
Yes, you can substitute full-fat coconut milk with heavy cream or whole milk, but the flavor and consistency will be different.
5. What side dishes pair well with butter chicken?
Butter chicken is delicious when served with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or even a side of lentils for a complete meal.
