Go Back
–+ servings
Benjamin

Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe: A Delicious Delight Awaits!

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!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Base: Add chicken, onion, garlic, and ginger to the slow cooker.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Finish it Off: Stir in lemon juice before serving.
  5. 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.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!