Delicious Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (a.k.a. Chicken Makhani) – Easy Recipe & Tips

There’s something magical about the aroma of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken wafting through the kitchen.

This beloved Indian dish, also known as Chicken Makhani, combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy tomato sauce that’s simply irresistible.

The best part? It practically cooks itself while I go about my day.

Ingredient List

For my Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, I gather the following ingredients:

  • Chicken thighs: 2 pounds, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Ginger: 2 tablespoons, minced
  • Tomato sauce: 1 can (15 ounces)
  • Coconut milk: 1 can (13.5 ounces)
  • Butter: 4 tablespoons
  • Garam masala: 2 tablespoons
  • Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Cumin powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
  • Red chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional for heat)
  • Fresh cilantro: for garnish

These ingredients come together for a savory and rich experience. I love the way the spices blend while the chicken cooks low and slow.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 1 chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Combine the ingredients in the slow cooker: Transfer the sautéed onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add the seasoned chicken pieces, along with 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce and 1 can (13.5 ounces) of coconut milk.
  4. Add the spices: Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric, and if using, ½ teaspoon of red chili powder for some heat. Stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce and spices.
  5. Slow cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it on low. Cook for 6 to 8 hours. The long cooking time allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
  6. Final touches: About 30 minutes before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in an additional 2 tablespoons of butter or a splash of heavy cream.
  7. Serve it up: Once done, shred the chicken using two forks for that classic butter chicken texture. Serve hot over basmati rice or with warm naan, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Recipe Notes & Variations

When making my Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, I love to keep a few notes in mind to perfect the flavor and texture.

Spice it Up

For those who enjoy a little heat, I recommend adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or increasing the amount of red chili powder. Adjust to your taste and spice tolerance.

Coconut Milk Alternatives

If you prefer a non-dairy option, I sometimes swap coconut milk for almond or cashew cream. This slight change gives a great flavor without dairy. It may also result in a lighter sauce.

Protein Options

While I often use chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor, I have tried this recipe with chicken breast, which works well but may require a shorter cooking time. I also find that cubed paneer or chickpeas can be excellent vegetarian choices.

Additional Veggies

Incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can add a nutritional boost and extra color to the dish. I typically toss in some spinach in the last 30 minutes of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and texture.

Meal Prep

This dish is perfect for meal prep. I like to make a larger batch and store individual portions in the freezer. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

While I love serving this butter chicken over fluffy basmati rice, I also enjoy it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Naan bread is always a great side for soaking up that delicious sauce.

Garnishes

To add a fresh touch, I sprinkle chopped cilantro or dollop some yogurt over the top. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can elevate the flavors further and add brightness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

I love to serve my Slow Cooker Butter Chicken with a variety of delicious accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors. Here are my favorite serving suggestions:

  • Basmati Rice: I usually pair this dish with fluffy basmati rice. The lightness of the rice perfectly balances the creamy sauce. I recommend cooking the rice with a pinch of salt and a few cardamom pods for added aroma.
  • Naan Bread: Warm naan is a must for dipping into the savory sauce. I often find that plain or garlic naan complements the dish beautifully. You can even brush it with a bit of melted butter for extra flavor.
  • Quinoa: For a healthier option, I sometimes switch it up by serving the butter chicken over quinoa. The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs well with the spices in the dish and adds a protein boost.
  • Cauliflower Rice: If I’m in the mood for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is my go-to. It soaks up the sauce well and adds a nice texture without the carbs.
  • Yogurt or Raita: A dollop of plain yogurt or cucumber raita adds a cooling effect to the dish. It helps balance the heat from the spices and offers a refreshing contrast.
  • Garnishes: I love finishing each plate with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. This brightens up the flavors and adds a vibrant touch to the presentation.
  • Vegetable Sides: To round out the meal, I sometimes serve a simple side of sautéed or roasted vegetables. Options like green beans, bell peppers, or spinach not only add color but also make the meal more nutritious.

Nutrition Information

As I prepare my Slow Cooker Butter Chicken, I love to keep an eye on the nutritional aspects to enjoy this rich dish guilt-free.

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information per serving, based on a recipe that serves about six.

Nutrient Amount per serving
Calories 370
Total Fat 20 g
Saturated Fat 10 g
Cholesterol 120 mg
Sodium 600 mg
Total Carbohydrates 20 g
Dietary Fiber 3 g
Sugars 5 g
Protein 30 g

Each serving contains a hearty amount of protein thanks to the chicken thighs, making it a satisfying meal.

The addition of coconut milk contributes to the richness while providing healthy fats.

The spices add not just flavor but also antioxidant properties, which I appreciate in my cooking.

When I serve this dish with basmati rice or cauliflower rice, I like to consider how that complements the nutritional profile.

Basmati rice adds about 150 calories per serving, while cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative that significantly reduces overall calories.

I always enjoy adjusting the recipe with vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, which further enhances the dish’s nutrition.

These options not only boost fiber but also add a colorful, appetizing element to the table.

This thoughtful combination allows me to relish my Slow Cooker Butter Chicken while keeping my meals balanced and nutritious.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken as I am. It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it fills your home with mouthwatering aromas while you go about your day.

Whether you enjoy it over basmati rice or with warm naan, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Plus, with all the variations available, you can make it your own.

So grab your slow cooker and get ready for a delicious meal that’s not just easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Enjoy every bite!

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