This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken combines bold Indian spices with the convenience of crockpot cooking. Each bite of tender chicken is smothered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with hidden cauliflower for added nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, this dish is wholesome, flavorful, and easy to make. Pair it with rice or naan for a complete meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 medium breasts)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets (about 4 ½ cups)
- 1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- ½ cup half-and-half (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt for dairy-free)
Directions:
- Heat coconut oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, then add ginger, garlic, curry powder, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Transfer the onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Place the chicken on top, followed by the cauliflower. Pour the tomato paste and tomato sauce over the ingredients. Stir slightly to coat the cauliflower and chicken with sauce.
- Scatter small pieces of butter on top. Cover and cook on high for 1½-2½ hours or on low for 4-6 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove the chicken, let it cool slightly, and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the slow cooker. Stir in the half-and-half and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, add the yogurt, stirring well to combine.
- Serve warm over rice, quinoa, or naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 346 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6
Enjoy this healthier, modern twist on a classic Indian favorite!
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: A Perfect Fusion of Flavor and Convenience
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a deliciously modern take on a classic Indian favorite. By combining traditional flavors with the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe makes creating an authentic-tasting dish both accessible and stress-free. The creamy, spiced sauce envelops tender chunks of chicken, offering a rich and satisfying meal that caters to busy families, meal preppers, and anyone who craves bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
What sets this recipe apart is its clever addition of hidden cauliflower, which seamlessly enhances the nutritional value of the dish without compromising on taste or texture. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or a newcomer looking for an approachable introduction to its bold spices, this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken offers the perfect balance of comfort and flavor.
The History and Evolution of Butter Chicken
Butter chicken, or murgh makhani, is a globally beloved dish originating from the rich culinary traditions of India. First created in the 1950s in Delhi, this dish was born from an ingenious solution to repurpose leftover tandoori chicken by simmering it in a spiced tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream. The result was a tender, flavorful dish with a creamy, tangy, and mildly spiced profile.
Over time, butter chicken has become a staple in Indian restaurants worldwide. This slow cooker version maintains the essence of the classic while introducing modern conveniences to simplify preparation. By incorporating the slow cooker, home chefs can replicate the depth of flavor traditionally achieved through slow simmering on the stovetop, with far less active effort.
What Makes Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Unique?
This recipe stands out for its combination of traditional Indian spices, creamy textures, and hidden vegetables. While many butter chicken recipes rely heavily on cream and butter, this version offers a more balanced and wholesome approach by using Greek yogurt and half-and-half as substitutes. For those following dairy-free diets, full-fat coconut milk and non-dairy yogurt work seamlessly, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting meal.
The hidden cauliflower is another noteworthy feature. When cooked in the tomato-based sauce and blended into the mixture, it becomes virtually undetectable while contributing fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s an ingenious way to sneak more vegetables into your diet, making the dish suitable for families with picky eaters.
The Role of Spices in Butter Chicken
At the heart of this dish lies its aromatic blend of spices. Curry powder, garam masala, and chili powder combine to create layers of complexity.
- Curry powder: A versatile mix of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and other spices, providing warmth and earthiness.
- Garam masala: A quintessential Indian spice blend, known for its aromatic, slightly sweet, and spicy notes.
- Chili powder: Adds a subtle kick that complements the creamy sauce, though it can be adjusted to suit personal heat preferences.
Together, these spices infuse the chicken and sauce with bold flavors that are both comforting and exciting. The process of sautéing the spices with onions, garlic, and ginger at the beginning of the recipe is crucial, as it helps release their full aroma and flavor.
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits
This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken offers a lighter twist on the classic dish without compromising on taste. Each serving is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients:
- Protein: The chicken serves as a lean source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Fiber: Thanks to the hidden cauliflower, this dish delivers a boost of fiber, supporting digestion and heart health.
- Healthy fats: Using half-and-half or coconut milk ensures a creamy texture without excessive saturated fats.
For those counting calories, each serving comes in at just 346 kcal, making it a wholesome yet indulgent choice for lunch or dinner.
Why Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Is Perfect for Meal Prep
In today’s fast-paced world, finding meals that are both easy to prepare and flavorful can be a challenge. Slow Cooker Butter Chicken checks both boxes. Its hands-off cooking method allows you to focus on other tasks while the dish simmers to perfection. Additionally, this recipe is perfect for meal prep:
- Batch cooking: You can double the recipe to ensure leftovers for the week.
- Freezer-friendly: Butter chicken freezes exceptionally well. Portion leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick, delicious meal.
- Versatile serving options: Pair it with rice, quinoa, or naan for variety throughout the week.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Butter chicken is best served with a carbohydrate base to soak up the rich, creamy sauce. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice are classic pairings, their fragrant flavors complementing the dish perfectly.
- Naan bread: Soft and slightly chewy, naan is ideal for scooping up the sauce.
- Quinoa: For a gluten-free, high-protein alternative, quinoa is an excellent choice.
- Vegetable sides: Add a side of steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a fresh cucumber salad for balance.
To garnish, fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and brightness, while a squeeze of lemon can enhance the dish’s tangy undertones.
A Dish for Every Occasion
This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is as versatile as it is flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing meals for the week, or simply looking for a comforting dinner on a chilly evening, this dish fits the bill. The mild yet complex flavor profile makes it a hit with kids and adults alike, and the customizable spice level allows you to cater to various palates.
For those exploring Indian cuisine for the first time, this recipe is a gentle introduction. It captures the essence of traditional butter chicken while offering a modern, approachable cooking method.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is a true testament to the magic of combining tradition with convenience. Its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and blend of bold spices create a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. The addition of hidden cauliflower elevates the nutritional profile, making it a wholesome choice for families. Whether you’re a busy professional, a home cook looking for meal prep solutions, or simply someone who loves Indian flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Serve it with rice, naan, or quinoa, and enjoy the warm, aromatic flavors that bring a taste of India to your table. With its ease of preparation and satisfying results, Slow Cooker Butter Chicken is more than a meal—it’s an experience you’ll want to savor again and again.
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Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Description
This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken combines bold Indian spices with the convenience of crockpot cooking. Each bite of tender chicken is smothered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with hidden cauliflower for added nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, this dish is wholesome, flavorful, and easy to make. Pair it with rice or naan for a complete meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 medium breasts)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets (about 4 ½ cups)
- 1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- ½ cup half-and-half (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt for dairy-free)
Instructions
- Heat coconut oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, then add ginger, garlic, curry powder, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Transfer the onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Place the chicken on top, followed by the cauliflower. Pour the tomato paste and tomato sauce over the ingredients. Stir slightly to coat the cauliflower and chicken with sauce.
- Scatter small pieces of butter on top. Cover and cook on high for 1½-2½ hours or on low for 4-6 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove the chicken, let it cool slightly, and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the slow cooker. Stir in the half-and-half and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, add the yogurt, stirring well to combine.
- Serve warm over rice, quinoa, or naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.
