Name: Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 300 min
Total time: 320 min
Ingredients: 3 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 large onion (peeled and diced); 700 g chicken breast (approx. 4 large chicken breasts, diced); 4 cloves garlic (peeled and minced); 1 tsp minced ginger; 1 tsp salt; 1.5 tbsp garam masala; 1 tbsp curry powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cinnamon; 240 ml chicken stock (water plus a stock cube or bouillon for gluten free is fine); 2 x 400ml (2 x 14 oz) tins of chopped tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato puree (for US); 2 tsp sugar; 6 pods cardamom (sew them together with a piece of string so you can easily fish them out later); 125 ml double/heavy cream; handful chopped coriander (to serve)

Introduction to Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Why You Should Consider Making Butter Chicken at Home

If you're searching for a meal that perfectly balances rich flavors with a straightforward preparation, Crock Pot Butter Chicken is your answer. Not only does it come together effortlessly in a slow cooker, but it also allows you to savor a restaurant-quality dish from the comfort of your home.

Making butter chicken at home means you can customize the spice level, ensuring a delightful experience for both adults and kids. By adjusting ingredients like curry powder or adding a splash of cream to create a milder sauce, you can cater to diverse tastes. And let’s be honest, nothing beats the aroma of aromatic spices wafting through your kitchen as it simmers away!

This dish is steeped in traditional Indian cuisine, where the luscious sauce complements tender chicken. Plus, it’s a fantastic meal prep option, with leftovers being just as delicious, if not better, the next day. For more inspiration on cooking with spices, check out BBC Good Food.

So grab your slow cooker and get ready to immerse yourself in the mouthwatering world of butter chicken. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Creating a delightful Crock Pot Butter Chicken is super easy when you have your ingredients ready! Here’s a comprehensive list of fresh ingredients you’ll need to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor.

List of Fresh Ingredients You'll Need

3 tablespoon butter – for that rich, creamy texture.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil – helps in sautéing the onions and chicken.
1 large onion, peeled and diced – a base for the aromatic flavors.
700 g (1 ½ lbs) chicken breast (approx. 4 large breasts), diced – your main protein source.
4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced – adds a delicious depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon minced ginger – brings warmth and zest to the dish.
1 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors.
1 ½ tablespoon garam masala – a must-have spice blend for authentic taste {source}.
1 tablespoon curry powder – for that classic curry flavor.
1 teaspoon paprika – gives a gentle sweetness and color {source}.
1 teaspoon cinnamon – adds a hint of warmth and sweetness.
240 ml (1 cup) chicken stock – creates a rich sauce; feel free to make your own!
2 x 400ml (2 x 14 oz) tins of chopped tomatoes – provides acidity and depth.
2 tablespoon tomato puree – thickens the sauce and deepens flavor.
2 teaspoon sugar – balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
6 cardamom pods – aromatic, just remember to fish them out later!
125 ml (½ cup) double/heavy cream – for that silky finish.
Handful of chopped coriander – for garnishing and freshness.

Gather these fresh ingredients, and you’re all set to make a delicious Crock Pot Butter Chicken that will impress everyone at your dinner table!

Preparing Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Crock Pot Butter Chicken is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. With just a few simple steps, your slow cooker can create a meal that’s packed with flavor and incredibly satisfying. Here’s how to make it easy and delicious!

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

First things first! Before you dive into cooking, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. You’ll need a variety of spices, chicken, and some flavorful aromatics. Here's what to put on your prep list:

3 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large onion (peeled and diced)
700 g (1 ½ lbs) chicken breast (diced)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon minced ginger
A selection of spices: salt, garam masala, curry powder, paprika, and cinnamon
240 ml chicken stock (plus water if needed)
2 tins of chopped tomatoes (400 ml each)
2 tablespoon tomato puree
2 teaspoon sugar
6 cardamom pods (extra tip: tie them with string for easy removal)
125 ml double/heavy cream
A handful of chopped coriander for garnish

Pro tip: Having everything ready makes the process seamless, and you can enjoy cooking without feeling rushed!

Sauté the Onions and Chicken

Start by preheating your slow cooker on high. In a large pan, melt the butter along with the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chicken to the pan, cooking for about 5-6 minutes until the onions are softened and the chicken is nicely sealed. This step not only helps to develop flavors but also ensures your chicken cooks evenly throughout in the slow cooker.

Add Aromatics and Spices

Now it’s time to throw in that aromatic goodness! Add minced garlic, ginger, salt, garam masala, curry powder, paprika, and cinnamon to the pan. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes. The smell is going to be incredible!

This is where you can start thinking about how you can adapt the spice level. If you or your guests prefer a little more heat, simply include a bit of chili powder in this step.

Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Once your aromatics are fragrant and enticing, pour in the chicken stock, chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, sugar, and the tied-up cardamom pods. Stir to combine and transfer everything into the slow cooker. Cover and let the magic happen! Cook on high for about 4-5 hours or low for 6-8 hours. You’ll want to make sure the chicken is tender and infused with all those delicious spices.

Stir in the Cream at the End

When you’re ready to serve, remove the cardamom pods and gently stir in the heavy cream. This adds that signature richness to your Crock Pot Butter Chicken. Give it a moment to heat through and then, voilà — you’re ready to dish it up!

Serve over rice and sprinkle with fresh coriander for a burst of flavor. Enjoy the smiles as you share this delightful meal! Dare I say, it might just become your new favorite comfort food.

Variations on Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Spicy Butter Chicken for Heat Lovers

If you crave a little more heat in your Crock Pot Butter Chicken, consider adding some finely chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper to the spice mix. For an extra kick, replace the regular curry powder with a spicy variant like madras curry powder. This way, you can customize your dish to suit your taste buds perfectly, allowing spice enthusiasts to savor every bite.

Vegetarian Option with Paneer or Chickpeas

For those looking to enjoy a vegetarian twist, swap out the chicken for paneer or chickpeas. Simply add diced paneer at the end of cooking to keep it soft, or mix in cooked chickpeas during the last hour. Both options present a delicious balance to your creamy sauce without losing that signature Crock Pot Butter Chicken flavor. Plus, you can still use the same blend of spices to ensure a wonderfully aromatic dish. For more ideas on vegetarian cooking, check out this resource.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Using the Right Slow Cooker

For perfect Crock Pot Butter Chicken, selecting the right slow cooker is key! I recommend a programmable model with a locking lid and various heat settings. If you can, opt for a slow cooker with a searing option; it allows you to brown the chicken beforehand, enhancing the flavor. A capacity of at least 4-6 quarts is ideal for this recipe, ensuring it can comfortably hold all your ingredients.

Adjusting Spice Levels to Your Preference

Do you like it spicy or mild? The beauty of Crock Pot Butter Chicken lies in its adaptability! You can easily tweak the heat by:

Using a spicier curry powder like madras
Adding a pinch of chili powder during cooking
Serving with yogurt on the side for cooling

Feel free to experiment until you find the perfect balance for your taste buds!

Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Perfect Paired Sides: Rice or Naan

When enjoying your Crock Pot Butter Chicken, you can't go wrong with a fluffy bowl of basmati rice or warm naan. The rice soaks up the rich, creamy sauce perfectly, while naan makes for an excellent utensil to scoop up every last bit. For added flavor, consider garnishing your rice with a sprinkle of fresh coriander or a squeeze of lime. Want to make it a meal? Serve alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome touch.

Garnishing Tips for Presentation

To elevate your Crock Pot Butter Chicken presentation, sprinkle freshly chopped coriander on top just before serving—this adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also drizzle a bit of cream around the edges of your serving dish for a tasty visual highlight. Consider serving with vibrant mango chutney on the side for an extra layer of flavor, making it not only delicious but visually appealing too.

Time Breakdown for Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Preparation Time

Getting started with your Crock Pot Butter Chicken is a breeze! You'll need about 20 minutes to gather all your ingredients, chop the onion, and prepare the chicken.

Cooking Time

Once you're all set, simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic for 5 hours on high or 6 to 8 hours on low. It’s a perfect meal for a busy day!

Total Time

In total, you're looking at around 5 hours and 20 minutes from prep to plate. This means you can set it and forget it, giving you plenty of time to unwind while dinner cooks!

Why not make your weeknight dinners stress-free with this flavorful dish? For more slow cooker tips, check out this guide to cooking with a slow cooker.

Nutritional Facts for Crock Pot Butter Chicken

When it comes to comfort food, Crock Pot Butter Chicken hits the mark! Here's a straightforward overview of the nutritional information per serving to help you plan your meals.

Calories

Each serving of this delightful dish contains approximately 311 calories, making it a hearty yet manageable choice for dinner.

Protein

Rich in protein, this recipe packs a punch with about 27 grams per serving, keeping you feeling full and satisfied.

Sodium

Be mindful of your sodium intake as this meal has around 620 mg per serving, which is fairly standard for a dish bursting with flavor. For those watching their sodium, consider using low-sodium chicken stock for a healthier spin.

Enjoy this Crock Pot Butter Chicken guilt-free, knowing you’ve balanced delicious taste with mindful nutrition! For more ideas on how to spice up your meal planning, check out our guide on healthy slow cooker recipes for inspiration.

FAQs about Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Absolutely! This Crock Pot Butter Chicken freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.

What Should I Serve with Butter Chicken?

For a delicious meal, serve your Butter Chicken over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Roasted or steamed vegetables can add a nice touch. Don't forget a side of yogurt or a fresh cucumber salad to balance out the dish's rich flavors!

How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?

To make this Crock Pot Butter Chicken lighter, consider using skinless chicken breast and reducing the amount of butter or cream used in the recipe. You can substitute coconut milk for cream for a dairy-free option, or try using Greek yogurt for added protein without excess calories.

Conclusion on Crock Pot Butter Chicken

In summary, Crock Pot Butter Chicken is a delightful and effortless dish perfect for any night of the week. Its creamy texture and rich flavors are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, with minimal prep time and the slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the hassle. Give it a try and savor the delightful fusion of spices that will have your family asking for seconds! For more tips on slow cooking, check out our guide on slow cookers.