Description
This Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is rich, creamy, and full of bold flavors. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that brings the authentic taste of India to your kitchen—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 (14 oz) can coconut milk
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked basmati rice or naan for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Base: Add chicken, onion, garlic, and ginger to the slow cooker.
Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tomato paste, coconut milk, Greek yogurt, butter, garam masala, curry powder, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over the chicken mixture.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Finish it Off: Stir in lemon juice before serving.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and serve with basmati rice or warm naan.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream just before serving.
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but thighs are more flavorful.
- To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free yogurt and skip the butter or use a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Indian