Introduction to Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
There's something uniquely comforting about slow cooker butter chicken. This delightful dish is not only a feast for the senses but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it's a family favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
One reason to embrace slow cooker butter chicken is the flavorful harmony that develops over time. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a luscious sauce that's perfect over rice or with warm naan. Plus, there's minimal hands-on time—just toss the ingredients in and let your slow cooker do the work!
Not convinced yet? Consider this: slow cooking is an excellent way to ensure your meals retain moisture, avoiding dried-out chicken. It’s also a great way to sneak in extra veggies, like cauliflower, without anyone batting an eye. For those who want to learn more about the benefits of slow cooking, check out this guide on slow cooking basics. Whether you're a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, slow cooker butter chicken is a delicious dish that brings both ease and satisfaction to your dinner table.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Creating the perfect slow cooker butter chicken starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here's what you'll need for a delightful and comforting meal that will wow everyone at the table.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 medium breasts)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil for a rich base
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger adds warmth and spice
- 4 cloves minced garlic (about 4 teaspoons) for that irresistible aroma
- 1 ½ tablespoons curry powder brings depth to the dish
- 1 tablespoon garam masala for a touch of sweetness
- 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder for a mild kick
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt to enhance flavors
- 1 (6-ounce) can no salt added tomato paste to thicken the sauce
- 1 small cauliflower (or ½ large head, cut into florets, about 4 ½ cups)
- 1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce to blend everything together
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces; coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- ½ cup half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk (avoid light coconut milk to keep the sauce creamy)
- ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt if you prefer dairy-free)
For serving: Consider pairing this delicious dish with prepared brown rice, quinoa, or even Homemade Naan—don’t forget the cilantro for a fresh garnish!
These ingredients come together beautifully in your slow cooker, creating a dish that’s not just flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. Have you tried this recipe yet? What’s your favorite way to serve it?
Step-by-step Preparation of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Cooking a delicious slow cooker butter chicken is not only easy but incredibly rewarding, especially when you come home to the mouthwatering aroma filling your kitchen. Let's dive into the simple steps that will help you create this comforting dish.
Prep your ingredients
Before you get started, gather all your ingredients to streamline the process. You'll need:
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into large pieces
- 1 diced small yellow onion
- Minced fresh ginger and garlic
- Spices: curry powder, garam masala, chili powder, and kosher salt
- Tomato paste and sauce
- Cauliflower florets and unsalted butter
- Half-and-half (or coconut milk) and Greek yogurt
Having everything ready allows you to focus on making the dish, while also ensuring you don't forget any crucial ingredients.
Sauté aromatics before slow cooking
Begin this slow cooker butter chicken journey by heating 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onions and sauté for about five minutes until they start to soften. This step enhances the flavor profile significantly, as it helps to release the aromatic oils.
Once the onions are fragrant, mix in the minced ginger, garlic, curry powder, garam masala, chili powder, and kosher salt, cooking for an additional 30 seconds. The smell will be heavenly! Transferring this aromatic mix into your slow cooker is the next step.
Layer ingredients in the slow cooker
In your 6-quart or larger slow cooker, arrange the sautéed aromatics as the base. Place the chicken pieces on top, followed by the cauliflower florets. Finally, pour in the tomato sauce and stir gently to coat the ingredients, leaving the chicken undisturbed at the bottom; they will soak up all the flavors as they cook. Be sure to scatter the butter pieces over everything to ensure a rich taste.
Cook until tender
Cover your slow cooker and set it to high for 1.5 to 2.5 hours, or low for 4 to 6 hours. The goal is for the chicken to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Always be mindful of your slow cooker’s cooking time, as some may vary. You'll want to check earlier rather than later to avoid dry chicken!
Finalize the dish with yogurt and cream
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it and let it cool slightly before cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Don’t forget to stir the slow cooker contents before adding the chicken back in. For a creamy finish, introduce the half-and-half or coconut milk, followed by the Greek yogurt. Just a tip: make sure the mixture has cooled a little first to avoid curdling.
Serve your savory slow cooker butter chicken warm over brown rice, quinoa, or your favorite homemade naan. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a beautiful color and added flavor. Enjoy this hearty, flavorsome dish that can brighten any weeknight dinner!
For additional serving suggestions and recipes, don’t miss this link on how to make homemade naan—it pairs perfectly with this dish!
Variations on Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
If you’re looking for a plant-based twist on traditional slow cooker butter chicken, this vegetarian version swaps out the chicken for hearty chickpeas and vibrant veggies. Just toss in a mix of cauliflower, bell peppers, and spinach along with the original spices and sauces. You might want to try using coconut cream in place of the yogurt for that creamy finish! This version is not only delicious but also packs a nutrient punch, making it a perfect dinner for everyone at the table.
Spicy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
For those who crave a little kick, creating a spicy slow cooker butter chicken is a breeze! Simply increase the chili powder, or add fresh chopped jalapeños or green chilis. You can even incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper if you're feeling adventurous! This version combines well with a cooling dollop of yogurt on top, perfectly balancing out the heat. Serve it alongside some homemade naan or fluffy quinoa for an unforgettable meal that will leave your taste buds dancing. Want to try a spicy side? Consider adding a tangy cucumber salad!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
When crafting your slow cooker butter chicken, consider these handy tips to elevate your dish:
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Layering Matters: Always start with the onions and spices at the bottom of your slow cooker. This adds depth to the flavor as they cook and infuse their aromatics into the chicken.
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Chicken Prep: Ensure your chicken is laid flat rather than stacked. This ensures even cooking and keeps it juicy.
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Tempering Yogurt: When adding Greek yogurt, let the sauce cool slightly before stirring it in. This prevents curdling and keeps your sauce creamy.
For best practices and inspiration, check out Culinary Institute of America for fantastic cooking tips!
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Nothing pairs better with slow cooker butter chicken than a healthy side to complement its rich flavors! Here are some delightful serving suggestions:
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Fluffy Brown Rice or Quinoa: Both options soak up the sauce beautifully and provide a nutritious foundation for your meal. Brown rice adds fiber while quinoa brings in extra protein.
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Homemade Naan: For that authentic Indian touch, whip up some homemade naan! It’s perfect for scooping up the tender chicken and creamy sauce.
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Garnish with Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing taste that balances the dish's richness.
By mixing and matching these suggestions, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor!
Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Preparation Time
Getting started on your slow cooker butter chicken is a breeze! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and prep everything—chopping onions, mincing garlic, and cutting the chicken into manageable sizes.
Cooking Time
The magic happens in the slow cooker! Depending on your setting, expect the cooking time to be 1.5 to 2.5 hours on high or 4 to 6 hours on low. Keep an eye on it to ensure that tender chicken is fully cooked but not dried out.
Total Time
In all, you’ll be looking at around 5 hours in total, which includes both prep and cooking. The best part? While it simmers away, you can relax or prep your sides, like brown rice or homemade naan. Enjoy the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen!
For additional tips on side dishes or to explore more delicious slow cooker recipes, check out this guide to perfect rice or simple naan.
Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
When you whip up a comforting dish like slow cooker butter chicken, it’s always good to know what you’re serving. Here’s the scoop on the nutritional breakdown:
Calories
Each serving of this hearty dish contains approximately 346 calories, making it a satisfying option for a filling meal.
Protein
Packed with lean protein, one serving boasts about 39 grams, which is perfect for muscle repair and maintaining energy levels throughout your day.
Sodium
Be mindful of the sodium content; this recipe hits around 750 mg per serving. Opt for low-sodium tomato products and watch the added salt for a healthier choice.
If you’re looking for a complete meal, pairing your slow cooker butter chicken with brown rice or quinoa will balance everything beautifully. For more nutritional insights, check out resources like the USDA's FoodData Central. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs about Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in your slow cooker butter chicken! Just place the frozen chicken directly in the slow cooker without thawing. However, ensure to extend the cooking time by about 1 to 1.5 hours on either setting to guarantee it is fully cooked through and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Making this dish dairy-free is simple! Replace the butter with coconut oil, the half-and-half with full-fat coconut milk (not light), and the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. These swaps maintain the creamy texture and delicious flavor of the dish without the dairy.
What can I serve with slow cooker butter chicken?
There are several delightful options to accompany your slow cooker butter chicken! Consider serving it over prepared brown rice or fluffy quinoa. For a fun twist, homemade naan is also a great choice. Don’t forget to top it with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Check out this Homemade Naan recipe for a perfect pairing!
Conclusion on Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
In conclusion, slow cooker butter chicken is a delightful dish that transforms tender chicken and rich spices into a comforting meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike. Serve it with rice or naan, and enjoy the delicious reflections of homemade goodness!
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- nonstick skillet
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 4 medium breasts
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 small yellow onion diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 4 cloves minced garlic about 4 teaspoons
- 1.5 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1.5 teaspoons chili powder
- 0.75 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 6-ounce can no salt added tomato paste
- 1 small cauliflower or ½ large head, cut into florets (about 4 ½ cups)
- 1 14-ounce can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into small pieces (use coconut oil to make dairy free)
- 0.5 cup half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk do not use light coconut milk, as it will water down the sauce
- 0.5 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt or non-dairy yogurt to make dairy free
For Serving
- Prepared brown rice
- Quinoa
- Homemade Naan see recipe link
- Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- In a nonstick skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium high. Once hot, add the onion and cook until beginning to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the ginger, garlic, curry, garam masala, chili powder, salt, and tomato paste. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Transfer the onions to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Lay the chicken on top, then the cauliflower florets, and top with tomato sauce. Stir to combine the florets and sauce a bit, leaving the chicken pieces undisturbed underneath. Scatter the butter pieces over the top.
- Cover and cook on high for 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours or on low for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches 165 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer.
- When the chicken is done, remove it to a cutting board and let cool slightly. At this point, the cauliflower is not likely to be tender. Stir the contents of the slow cooker, then recover and cook on HIGH until the florets are completely tender, about 30 minutes to 1 hour more.
- Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, cut it into bite-size pieces. Return to the slow cooker with the tender florets. Stir in the half-and-half (or coconut milk).
- Let cool a few minutes, then stir in the Greek yogurt. Enjoy warm over brown rice, quinoa, or naan, sprinkled with fresh cilantro.
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