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Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

This easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken features tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with butter, garlic, ginger, and warm Indian-inspired spices. It is a comforting option for busy weeknights and one of those simple slow cooker meals that pairs perfectly with basmati rice or warm naan.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts, cut into large pieces
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1½ teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped

Method
 

  1. Add the chicken, butter, onion, garlic, ginger, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker.
  2. Stir gently until the ingredients are evenly combined.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 2½–3½ hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream during the final 10–15 minutes of cooking.
  5. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt or spices as desired.
  6. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
  7. Serve hot over basmati rice with naan, roti, or your favorite side.

Notes

Chicken thighs are recommended because they stay tender during slow cooking.
Chicken breasts can be used but should not be overcooked.
Add the heavy cream near the end rather than at the beginning.
For a spicier butter chicken, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
For a turkey variation, substitute boneless turkey pieces for the chicken and cook until fully done.
If the sauce is too thin, leave the slow cooker uncovered for several minutes after adding the cream.
Always check that poultry reaches a safe internal temperature before serving.