How to Make Butter Chicken in a Slow Cooker

If you’re wondering how to make butter chicken in a slow cooker for a delightful and hassle-free meal, you’ve come to the right place!

What is Butter Chicken?

Butter chicken, or murgh makhani, is a popular Indian dish known for its creamy and rich tomato sauce that tantalizes the taste buds.

Often paired with basmati rice or naan, this dish brings vibrant flavors of spices that make it a favorite in many households.

The beauty of preparing butter chicken in a slow cooker lies in the method itself; it allows the spices and flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is packed with taste and easy to prepare.

How do You Prepare Ingredients for Butter Chicken?

To successfully learn how to make butter chicken in a slow cooker, you need to gather essential ingredients. Here’s a list to help you:

• Chicken:
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Spices:
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
• Sauce:
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or minced ginger and garlic)
• Other Ingredients:
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnishing
• Lemon wedges (optional)

What Are the Steps to Make Butter Chicken in a Slow Cooker?

Learning how to make butter chicken in a slow cooker can be broken down into simple steps:

1. Prep Your Slow Cooker:
   – Start by greasing your slow cooker with a little oil or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Combine Ingredients:
   – In a large bowl, mix the spices (garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder) with the chopped onion, ginger-garlic paste, tomato sauce, and coconut milk or heavy cream.

3. Add Chicken:
   – Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place it in the slow cooker.
   – Pour the spice mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.

4. Cook:
   – Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This low-and-slow method ensures the chicken becomes tender and absorbs the rich flavors.

5. Finish with Butter and Cream:
   – About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the butter and additional cream if you wish for a richer texture.
   – Adjust salt to taste.

6. Garnish:
   – Once cooked, garnish your butter chicken with fresh cilantro and serve it hot.

How to Serve Butter Chicken?

Now that you’ve learned how to make butter chicken in a slow cooker, it’s time to serve it up!

Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• With Rice: Serve over fluffy basmati rice, allowing the sauce to soak in, making each bite exquisite.
• With Naan Bread: Warm naan is perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Salad Side: Pair it with a fresh salad for added crunch and nutrition.
• Yogurt Sauce: A side of plain yogurt or raita adds a cooling effect to balance the spices.

Can You Customize Butter Chicken?

Absolutely! Butter chicken is versatile, allowing for customization according to your taste preferences. Here are some ideas for personalizing your recipe:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or paneer for a vegetarian delight.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder to suit your flavor preference.
• Additional Vegetables: Add in bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cooking Liquid: Instead of coconut milk, try using yogurt for a tangy flavor twist.

Can You Store Leftover Butter Chicken?

Leftover butter chicken can be stored and enjoyed later!

• Refrigerate: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, the dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it is cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan on low heat or microwave until warmed through.

Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken Every Time

Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your butter chicken turns out perfectly every time you decide to make it in your slow cooker:

• Marinate Chicken: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
• Sauté First: For a deeper flavor, sauté the onions and spices in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Use Bone-In Chicken: For a richer taste, using bone-in chicken can add more depth to your dish.
• Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your butter chicken.

Conclusion

Now you have a comprehensive guide on how to make butter chicken in a slow cooker!

This recipe is not just delicious but also convenient for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

With easy-to-follow steps and tips for customization, you can create a flavorful butter chicken dish that everyone will love.

So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy the aromatic journey to a delightful Indian feast!