Best Crockpot Butter Chicken for a Quick Weeknight Meal

Crockpot Butter Chicken is arguably one of the most beloved Indian dishes, and for good reason. Imagine walking into your home after a long day, greeted by the intoxicating aroma of tender chicken simmering in a rich, creamy, and subtly spiced tomato sauce. That, my friends, is the magic of this incredible recipe. I’ve always been captivated by dishes that offer profound flavor with minimal fuss, and this one truly delivers, transforming your kitchen into a sanctuary of delightful scents and anticipation.

Originating from the culinary heart of Delhi, India, Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, has a fascinating history. It was first created in the 1950s by Kundan Lal Gujral, the founder of Moti Mahal restaurant, and quickly became a global sensation. Its unique blend of spices, creamy texture, and succulent chicken has endeared it to palates worldwide. What makes it so universally adored? It’s the unparalleled combination of juicy chicken, often marinated in yogurt and spices, bathed in a velvety sauce made from tomatoes, butter, cream, and a blend of aromatic spices like ginger, garlic, garam masala, and fenugreek leaves. This slow-cooked version elevates those classic flavors, allowing them to meld together perfectly over hours.

People absolutely rave about Crockpot Butter Chicken not just for its incredible taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture, but also for its sheer convenience. It transforms a dish that might seem complex into an effortless culinary masterpiece, making it ideal for busy weeknights or stress-free entertaining. The slow cooker ensures the chicken remains incredibly moist and tender, while the sauce develops an unparalleled depth of flavor that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. It’s truly a dish that comforts the soul and delights the senses, proving that extraordinary meals don’t always require extraordinary effort.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes (I personally find boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonders because they stay incredibly moist and tender during the long cooking process, absorbing all those beautiful flavors without drying out.)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• For the Aromatics and Base:
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (Because, well, it’s butter chicken! This is where a lot of that foundational richness comes from.)
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (The finer you dice it, the more seamlessly it will melt into our luxurious sauce.)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh garlic is non-negotiable here; it provides that essential pungent depth.)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or minced (Another flavor powerhouse! Don’t skimp on the fresh ginger for that signature warmth.)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (Look for good quality crushed tomatoes; they form the robust backbone of our sauce.)
• ½ cup chicken broth or water (Just to ensure everything cooks down beautifully and the sauce isn’t too thick initially.)
• For the Spices:
• 1 tablespoon garam masala (This spice blend is the heart and soul of our Crockpot Butter Chicken, providing complex, aromatic notes.)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (Adds an earthy, warm undertone.)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander (Lends a bright, citrusy, and slightly floral aroma.)
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder (For that beautiful golden hue and subtle earthy flavor.)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (Optional, but I love the gentle kick it adds. Adjust to your spice preference!)
• For the Creaminess and Finishing:
• ½ cup heavy cream (This is what brings that ultimate velvety texture and richness to our sauce. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk can be used, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile.)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (Added at the very end to give our sauce that glossy finish and another layer of irresistible buttery flavor.)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens all the flavors and balances the richness.)
• Optional Garnishes and Serving Suggestions:
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness.)
• Warm naan bread or roti (Perfect for scooping up every last drop of that amazing sauce.)
• Basmati rice (A classic accompaniment that soaks up the sauce beautifully.)

Preparing the Chicken and Aromatics:

1. First things first, I always start by preparing my chicken. If you’re using boneless, skinless chicken thighs like I often do, I recommend patting them dry with paper towels. This helps any seasoning stick better. Then, carefully cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Uniform pieces are key here, as they ensure even cooking. Once cut, I’ll transfer the chicken to a bowl and season it simply with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, giving it a good toss to ensure every piece is lightly coated.
2. Now, let’s get our aromatics ready. I grab a large yellow onion and proceed to peel and finely dice it. The goal here is small, consistent pieces that will practically melt into the sauce, contributing sweetness and body without being overtly chunky. Next, I’ll mince four cloves of fresh garlic. I love using a garlic press for speed, but a good old-fashioned knife works perfectly too. For the ginger, I usually peel a piece about the size of my thumb and grate it finely. Fresh ginger truly makes a difference in Crockpot Butter Chicken, so please don’t be tempted to use dried here!
3. This next step is technically optional for slow cooker recipes, but I swear by it for building incredible depth of flavor: I like to lightly sauté my aromatics. In a large skillet, I’ll melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering, I add my finely diced onion. I let it cook gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s softened and translucent. We’re not looking for heavy browning, just a nice softening.
4. Once the onion is translucent, I’ll add my minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. I continue to cook for just another minute, stirring constantly, until they become incredibly fragrant. Your kitchen will already start smelling amazing at this point! It’s important not to burn the garlic, as that can turn bitter, so keep a close eye on it. This quick sauté step really helps to unlock and mellow out their flavors, ensuring they infuse beautifully into our sauce as it slow cooks.

Making the Butter Chicken Sauce and Slow Cooking:

5. Once my aromatics have been lightly sautéed and are smelling fantastic, I carefully transfer them from the skillet directly into the bowl of my 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker. There’s no need to clean the skillet just yet, as we might use it again for another recipe!
6. Now, it’s time to build the heart of our Crockpot Butter Chicken. Into the slow cooker with the aromatics, I add the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. I always make sure to give it a good stir to combine it with the onions, garlic, and ginger. Following that, I pour in the ½ cup of chicken broth (or water). This little bit of liquid helps ensure everything has enough moisture to cook down properly and prevents anything from drying out.
7. Next come our star spices! I add 1 tablespoon of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, and ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder. If you like a little heat like I do, now’s the time to add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Don’t be shy with these spices; they are what give butter chicken its iconic taste! I give everything a very thorough stir with a sturdy spoon, making sure all the spices are fully incorporated into the tomato base. You should see a beautiful, vibrant orange-red sauce starting to form.
8. Finally, I gently add the seasoned chicken pieces into the slow cooker. I nestle them down into the sauce, making sure each piece is mostly submerged. I use my spoon to gently push them around, ensuring they are well coated by our fragrant sauce. At this stage, the raw chicken might look a little sparse, but trust me, it will cook down beautifully and become incredibly tender.
9. Now, for the magic of slow cooking! I place the lid firmly on my slow cooker. I’ve found that the best results for Crockpot Butter Chicken come from cooking on the LOW setting for 6-8 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3-4 hours. My personal preference is always the LOW setting when time permits, as it allows the flavors to meld and deepen over a longer period, resulting in a more complex and tender dish. If you choose the HIGH setting, make sure to check the chicken around the 3-hour mark to prevent overcooking.
10. During the cooking process, the aroma filling your home will be absolutely intoxicating. I try my best not to lift the lid too often, as each time you do, heat escapes and it extends the overall cooking time. Around the 6-hour mark on LOW, or 3-hour mark on HIGH, I like to gently check the chicken. It should be fork-tender, easily shredding or breaking apart. If it’s still a bit firm, give it another hour or so.

Finishing Touches and Serving:

11. Once the chicken is wonderfully tender and has absorbed all those magnificent flavors, it’s time for the final, crucial steps that elevate this dish to true Crockpot Butter Chicken perfection. I lift the lid and the first thing you’ll notice is the rich, aromatic sauce and perfectly cooked chicken.
12. I then stir in the ½ cup of heavy cream. This is where our sauce gets its signature velvety texture and luscious richness. If you’re using full-fat coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative, you’d add it here. I stir it gently until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce takes on a beautiful, creamy, light orange hue. This heavy cream is absolutely essential for that authentic butter chicken experience!
13. Next, I add the 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter. Yes, more butter! This is added at the end for a reason. It melts into the hot sauce, creating an incredible gloss and contributing a fresh, vibrant buttery flavor that finishes the dish perfectly. I stir it until it’s completely melted and integrated into the sauce.
14. Finally, I squeeze in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. This simple addition is a game-changer! The lemon juice cuts through the richness of the cream and butter, brightening all the flavors and bringing a wonderful balance to the dish. Without it, the sauce can sometimes taste a little flat, but the lemon just lifts everything beautifully.
15. At this point, I always taste the sauce. This is your chance to adjust the seasoning. Do you feel it needs a little more salt? A touch more cayenne for heat? Perhaps a tiny pinch more garam masala for extra warmth? Trust your taste buds here.
16. Once you’re happy with the taste, your incredible Crockpot Butter Chicken is ready to be served! I love to garnish it generously with freshly chopped cilantro. The bright green of the cilantro against the rich orange sauce is visually appealing, and its fresh, herbaceous flavor is the perfect complement.
17. I typically serve this with fluffy basmati rice, which is wonderful for soaking up every drop of that glorious sauce. Warm naan bread or roti on the side is also a must for scooping and wiping the plate clean. Prepare for rave reviews; this Crockpot Butter Chicken is always a crowd-pleaser! It’s truly one of those comfort food dishes that makes everyone happy, and the slow cooker does most of the hard work for you. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s a culinary revelation that I genuinely believe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. I promise you, the sheer simplicity of preparation combined with the incredible depth of flavor is what makes this dish an absolute must-try for everyone, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs. Imagine coming home after a long day to a house filled with the intoxicating aromas of ginger, garlic, and garam masala, knowing that your dinner is not only ready but has been slow-cooking to perfection all day long. The chicken emerges unbelievably tender, practically melting in your mouth, enveloped in a rich, creamy, and subtly spiced tomato-based sauce that clings to every single morsel. This isn’t just an easy dinner; it’s a gourmet experience achieved with minimal hands-on effort on your part, all thanks to the magic of slow cooking. It’s absolutely perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting, exotic, and truly satisfying but simply don’t have the time or energy for elaborate preparations. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the idea of a delicious, home-cooked meal without the usual kitchen stress? This is precisely why our Crockpot Butter Chicken stands out – it delivers big on flavor, convenience, and pure dining satisfaction every single time. It truly is a set-it-and-forget-it wonder that tastes like you’ve spent hours slaving over it, making it an indispensable recipe for any household seeking flavor and ease.

Now, when it comes to serving this incredible dish, the possibilities are wonderfully diverse, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your mood, the occasion, or whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand. For a truly classic and comforting experience, I wholeheartedly recommend serving it alongside fluffy basmati rice, which beautifully soaks up every precious drop of that luscious, aromatic sauce. And please, don’t forget some warm, pillowy naan bread – it’s absolutely perfect for scooping up any remaining deliciousness, making it practically mandatory! If you’re looking to add a touch of vibrant freshness and a delightful textural contrast, a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice right before serving can elevate the flavors and brightness even further. For those who enjoy a bit of cooling contrast and creamy richness, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a swirl of sour cream gently mixed into each serving is an utterly delightful addition. Feeling a bit more adventurous or looking for lighter alternatives? Try serving it with crispy roasted potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a fantastic low-carb option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. You can also easily sneak in some extra vegetables for added nutrients and color; I sometimes throw in a handful of frozen peas or fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If you prefer a bit more kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped green chili can be added along with the other spices at the beginning of the cooking process. This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so please feel free to experiment and make it truly your own personal masterpiece!

I genuinely hope that after reading about this delightful creation, you feel truly inspired and excited to give it a try in your own home. I promise you, the sheer joy of tasting this perfectly cooked, incredibly flavor-packed dish after such minimal effort is an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s a wonderful and effortless way to bring a taste of comforting global cuisine right into your home, effortlessly and deliciously. Don’t be shy; embrace the simplicity and the profound deliciousness that this recipe so generously offers. And please, please, once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love for you to come back and share your experience with me and our wonderful community! I genuinely love hearing about your culinary adventures. Did you add a secret ingredient that took it to the next level? Did you discover a new favorite side pairing? Share your photos, your clever tweaks, and your triumphs in the comments below. Your feedback and creativity not only inspire me but also help other home cooks discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this fantastic, foolproof meal. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare to fall head over heels in love with your new favorite go-to dinner. You truly deserve to treat yourself to something this delicious and utterly stress-free!