Crockpot Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy, aromatic sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich flavors and the ease of cooking in a slow cooker, it has quickly become a favorite for families and friends. Whether you are serving it for a cozy dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a taste of India right at home!
how to prepare Crockpot Butter Chicken
To start your journey to making Crockpot Butter Chicken, gather the following ingredients: chicken thighs, garlic, ginger, tomato sauce, coconut milk, butter, and spices like garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder. First, trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Next, place the chicken in the crockpot. Add chopped garlic, grated ginger, tomato sauce, and coconut milk on top, stirring to combine everything.
Now, sprinkle the spices over the mixture, giving it a good stir. Don’t forget to add a few tablespoons of butter for that creamy texture. Once everything is mixed well, cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. When it’s done, shred the chicken using two forks, and mix it back into the sauce. Serve your Butter Chicken over rice or with warm naan bread. Enjoy this flavorful meal that practically makes itself!
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Butter Chicken
There are many reasons to love this dish! First, it is super simple to make, and you only need a few ingredients. Just toss everything in your crockpot and let it do the work. The flavor is incredible, combining spices that create a warm and inviting aroma throughout your home. Plus, this meal is versatile. You can serve it with rice, naan, or even in a wrap for lunch the next day.
It is also a great option for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch, and it stores well in the fridge or freezer. This means you can plan quick meals throughout the week without much effort. Best of all, it is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike. People can’t resist the creamy sauce and tender chicken, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings and family dinners.
tips for success
To ensure your Crockpot Butter Chicken turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips. First, use bone-in or skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, you can also use chicken breasts, but be aware they may dry out more easily.
Second, don’t rush the cooking process. Cooking it on low and slow helps develop deeper flavors. If you have time, let it cook on low for the best taste, but if you’re in a hurry, high heat will work fine too.
Third, adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you love heat, add a touch more chili powder or fresh chilis. For a milder version, feel free to reduce the spice quantity. Lastly, always taste the sauce before serving. You can add more salt or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Butter Chicken is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some tasty serving suggestions. It pairs beautifully with basmati rice or jasmine rice, soaking up all the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with warm naan or pita bread for a delightful way to gather the sauce.
For a fresh touch, toss a simple salad with cucumbers and tomatoes dressed in lemon juice to complement the rich flavors of the butter chicken. Alternatively, you can serve it with roasted vegetables to add some color and nutrition to your meal.
If you want to make it a feast, don’t forget the condiments! Serve with yogurt, fresh cilantro, or lime wedges on the side. These add extra creaminess and freshness to your dish, making it even more delicious.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze leftovers of Crockpot Butter Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months.
2. How can I make it spicy?
If you want more heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add diced fresh chilis to the crockpot. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side.
3. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use diced pork, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for tofu, which cooks faster.
4. What can I substitute for coconut milk?
If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can use heavy cream or plain yogurt for a different, but still creamy, flavor. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.
Print
Crockpot Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful dish combining tender chicken with a creamy, aromatic sauce, perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Instructions
- Place the chicken in the crockpot.
- Add garlic, ginger, tomato sauce, and coconut milk, stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle spices over the mixture and add butter, stirring again.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once done, shred the chicken and mix it back into the sauce.
- Serve over rice or with warm naan.
Notes
Use bone-in or skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor. Adjust spice levels and always taste the sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: crockpot, butter chicken, Indian food, comfort food, slow cooker
