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Crockpot Butter Chicken

This crockpot butter chicken is a comforting, slow-cooked dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, velvety tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices and butter. The slow cooking process melds flavors beautifully, resulting in a glossy, fragrant dish with a tender texture, perfect served over rice or with naan. Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it an ideal weeknight meal with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup tomato puree or canned tomato passata
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch piece of ginger grated or minced
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 tablespoons butter cut into small cubes
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk optional, for richness
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • for garnish cilantro chopped, for freshness

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Begin by chopping the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Gather your minced garlic and grated ginger, and measure out the spices and tomato puree.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the tomato puree with minced garlic, ginger, garam masala, and cumin. Stir until smooth and fragrant.
  3. Layer the seasoned chicken pieces into the slow cooker, then pour the spice-infused tomato sauce over the top, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly.
  4. Distribute the small cubes of butter over the chicken and sauce. Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to low. Let it cook for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is tender and the sauce is thickened and glossy.
  5. Once cooking is complete, open the lid and gently stir the dish. If the sauce is too thin, leave the lid off and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes to reduce and thicken.
  6. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness, then let it sit uncovered for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a bright, herbal finish. Serve hot over steamed rice or with warm naan for a cozy, flavorful meal.