Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice for anyone who loves rich, comforting meals but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, and the result is a deeply flavorful dish that’s not overly spicy, making it family-friendly. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and tastes just as good (if not better) the next day.

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
16 oz (450 g) tomato sauce or passata
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon granulated sugar or honey
2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
½ cup (120 ml) heavy whipping cream (double cream in the UK)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro for garnish

Directions

Add ginger, garlic, tomato sauce, cumin, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and sugar to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
Place chicken thighs into the sauce, coating them evenly.
Scatter the butter cubes over the top, cover, and cook:
- On HIGH for 1.5–2 hours, or
- On LOW for 4–6 hours.
Once the chicken reaches 165°F internally, remove it from the slow cooker and set aside to cool slightly.
Stir the heavy cream into the sauce until smooth and creamy.
Chop the chicken into bite-size pieces, return it to the sauce, and stir to coat.
Garnish with fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro before serving.

Serve with basmati rice and naan bread for the best experience.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes (on HIGH) or 4–6 hours (on LOW)
Total time: About 1 hour 45 minutes (on HIGH) or up to 6 hours 15 minutes (on LOW)

Variations

Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Skip the chili powder for a kid-friendly, mild dish.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.
Adjust spices to your preference for a more robust or milder curry flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to avoid splitting the sauce.
Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this with chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, though thighs tend to stay more tender and juicy during slow cooking.

Do I need to sear the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker?

No, it’s not necessary for this recipe. The chicken cooks directly in the sauce and comes out flavorful and tender.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and refrigerate overnight, then cook the next day.

What can I serve with butter chicken besides rice?

It pairs beautifully with naan bread, roti, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes.

Can I make this spicier?

Yes, simply increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to boost the heat.

Is butter chicken the same as chicken tikka masala?

They are similar but not identical. Butter chicken is creamier and slightly sweeter, while tikka masala has a tangier tomato base.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

Yes, just blend them until smooth to achieve the same consistency.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, simmer everything in a large pot for about 30–40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, then finish with cream.

Why is sugar added to the sauce?

A small amount of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Always stir the cream in at the end after cooking. Adding it earlier may cause separation.

Conclusion

Slow cooker butter chicken is the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and flavor. With simple prep and a few pantry spices, you can create a creamy, restaurant-worthy curry at home. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress and become a regular addition to your dinner rotation.