Crockpot Butter Chicken

Name: Crockpot Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breast, cubed; 1 cup butter; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich, creamy goodness of Crockpot Butter Chicken, a delightful dish that transforms tender chicken into a mouthwatering meal with minimal effort. This cozy recipe combines fragrant spices and a luscious tomato sauce, making it the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Serve it over rice or with naan for an unforgettable dining experience everyone will love.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2025-12-01T11:16:18.596Z

Crockpot Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it's a comforting embrace on a busy day.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Crockpot Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that fits perfectly into any occasion. Whether it's an intimate family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or even a festive celebration, this recipe will surely impress your guests. Its delightful flavors and comforting aroma create an inviting atmosphere that makes every meal feel special. The convenience of the crockpot allows you to prepare this dish ahead of time, freeing you to enjoy quality moments with your loved ones while your dinner cooks to perfection.

Moreover, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. You can substitute chicken with turkey, tofu, or even vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian version. This adaptability means that you can share this dish with everyone, regardless of their dietary restrictions. No matter your occasion, Crockpot Butter Chicken will be a hit!

A Taste of Authentic Indian Cuisine

This dish brings the rich and complex flavors of Indian cuisine directly to your dining table. The blend of garam masala, ginger, and garlic creates a symphony of tastes that transports you to the heart of India. Each bite is infused with warmth and depth, making it a comforting choice that resonates with food lovers around the world. It's a great way to introduce your family to the wonders of Indian cooking without having to master the art yourself.

Pair this Butter Chicken with fragrant basmati rice or freshly baked naan to enhance your dining experience. To elevate the meal further, consider serving it with traditional Indian sides such as raita, a cooling yogurt dish, or a crisp salad. By engaging with these elements, you create an authentic experience that showcases the beauty of Indian cuisine right in your home.

Easy Preparation for Busy Lives

One of the standout features of Crockpot Butter Chicken is its incredible ease of preparation. With just a few minutes of chopping and measuring, you can set everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work. This hands-off approach is perfect for those hectic days when you have little time to spend in the kitchen. Just prepare the ingredients in the morning, and you’ll come home to a delicious, piping-hot meal.

Additionally, this dish allows for leftovers that taste even better the next day. The flavors meld together overnight, enhancing the rich taste of the sauce. Simply warm up the remaining Butter Chicken for lunch or dinner the following day for a quick and satisfying meal without any extra effort. This makes it a perfect choice for meal prep, ensuring you have hearty, homemade food ready to enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breast, cubed
1 cup butter
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to measure and prepare your ingredients before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your butter chicken:

Prepare the Base

In the crockpot, combine the chicken, butter, onion, garlic, ginger, tomato sauce, garam masala, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender.

Finish with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy butter chicken!

Tips for the Perfect Butter Chicken

To achieve the best flavors in your Crockpot Butter Chicken, use high-quality ingredients. Opt for organic chicken and fresh spices for the most authentic taste. Fresh garlic and ginger add a vibrant kick that truly elevates the dish. When measuring spices, feel free to adjust them to your taste preferences, adding more garam masala or paprika for extra warmth and depth.

Another helpful tip is to allow the heavy cream to warm slightly before adding it to the crockpot. This prevents temperature shock and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider adding a cornstarch slurry towards the end of the cooking time, which can help give it a luscious consistency that clings beautifully to rice or naan.

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot Butter Chicken is best enjoyed with a range of side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Serving it over fragrant basmati rice is traditional and allows the delicious sauce to soak in. You can also include a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal and add texture.

For a little extra indulgence, homemade naan is the perfect accompaniment. Whether you opt for classic, garlic, or even stuffed naan, this bread is ideal for scooping up the buttery sauce. If you want to add freshness, consider serving a side of cucumber raita, which provides a cooling contrast to the warm spices, rounding out the meal beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Crockpot Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. This makes for quick and easy meals when you're short on time.

When reheating, you can do so in a saucepan on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. If it seems thick, add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure even heating, and enjoy the added convenience of having a delicious home-cooked meal ready in minutes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add extra cooking time.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter and cream with coconut milk.