Description
This Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken & Rice Meal is a hands-off, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken simmers in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce until it’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Serve it over fluffy rice for a comforting, satisfying Indian-inspired dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups cooked basmati rice
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thigh chunks to the marinade and stir thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
- Add to Slow Cooker: Transfer the marinated chicken to the slow cooker. Add the finely chopped onion and the tomato sauce on top. Stir gently to incorporate.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Finish the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the butter and heavy cream or coconut milk. Leave the slow cooker uncovered and continue cooking for an additional 20 to 30 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve: Serve the butter chicken hot over cooked basmati rice and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and replace butter with a vegan alternative or omit it.
- Chicken breasts can be used as an alternative to thighs, but thighs tend to yield a more tender and flavorful dish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
