Introduction to Crock Pot Butter Chicken
If you’re searching for a comforting, delicious meal that fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle, Crock Pot Butter Chicken should be at the top of your list. This recipe is a game-changer for those hectic weeknights when you want to serve up something special without the stress of constant monitoring. Just add your ingredients to the slow cooker, set the timer, and let it work its magic while you attend to other tasks.
One of the many reasons this dish shines is its flexibility. You can adjust the spice levels to suit the whole family, making it appealing to both adults and kids. With the rich flavors of butter, cream, and aromatic spices—like garam masala and cinnamon—each bite is a burst of warmth that transports you straight to your favorite Indian restaurant.
Additionally, slow cooking ensures that the chicken remains incredibly tender and infused with flavor. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side of rice or naan, making it a complete meal that’s just as enjoyable in the colder months as it is any time of year. For a quick start, check out this guide on slow cooking basics to get the most out of your Crock Pot!
Ingredients for Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Making the perfect Crock Pot Butter Chicken starts with gathering your ingredients. This delightful dish is a fusion of spices and creamy goodness that will have your taste buds dancing. Here's what you'll need to create this nourishing meal:
- Butter and Oil: 3 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil create a rich base for sautéing your aromatics.
- Aromatics: One large diced onion, 4 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of minced ginger add depth and flavor.
- Chicken: About 700 g (1 ½ lbs) of diced chicken breast to keep it lean and protein-packed.
- Spices: A warm blend of 1 ½ tablespoon of garam masala, 1 tablespoon of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon gives the Crock Pot Butter Chicken its signature taste.
- Tomatoes: Use 2 tins of chopped tomatoes (400 ml each) for the perfect saucy consistency, along with 2 tablespoon of tomato puree for added richness.
- Liquid: 1 cup of chicken stock (or bouillon for a gluten-free option) keeps the dish moist and delicious.
- Cream: Stir in ½ cup of double or heavy cream at the end to achieve that classic buttery texture.
- Finishing Touches: Don’t forget 2 teaspoon of sugar, 6 cardamom pods, and a handful of chopped coriander for garnishing.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re on the way to creating a comforting dinner that’s sure to impress! Want to learn how to make the best chicken stock? Check out this chicken stock recipe!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Creating a delicious Crock Pot Butter Chicken is straightforward, especially when you follow these simple steps. Using a slow cooker not only infuses flavor but also sets you free to attend to other tasks while dinner is being prepared! Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to a scrumptious, aromatic dish.
Get the prep work done
Start by gathering your ingredients and equipment. You will need:
- 3 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, peeled and diced
- 700g (1 ½ lbs) chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Spices: 1 ½ tablespoon garam masala, 1 tablespoon curry powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 240 ml (1 cup) chicken stock
- 2 x 400 ml (14 oz) tins of chopped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoon tomato puree
- 2 teaspoon sugar
- 6 cardamom pods
- 125 ml (½ cup) double/heavy cream
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Having everything ready makes the cooking process much smoother. Prepping the aromatics and chicken beforehand will set you up for success!
Sear the chicken and aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the butter and vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and chicken, cooking for about 5-6 minutes, or until the onions become tender and the chicken is lightly browned. This step enhances the flavors significantly. After that, toss in the minced garlic, ginger, salt, and spices—garam masala, curry powder, paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until your kitchen is enveloped in mouthwatering aromas. This is the heart of your Crock Pot Butter Chicken.
Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker
Now, transfer the chicken and onion mixture into your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken stock, chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, sugar, and cardamom pods (you can tie them in a piece of string for easy removal later). Stir it all together to combine and ensure the chicken is well-coated with seasoning.
Cook to perfection
Set your slow cooker to high and let it work its magic for about 4-5 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. This is where the real beauty of slow cooking comes into play. The longer cooking time allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a rich, deep flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Just imagine coming home to that delectable scent filling the air!
Finish with cream and taste adjustments
Once your Crock Pot Butter Chicken is done cooking, carefully remove the cardamom pods. Stir in the heavy cream, enhancing the dish’s richness, and allow it to heat through for a few minutes. Give it a taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Maybe it needs a pinch of salt or a touch more sugar? Trust your palate!
Now, serve this luscious dish over a bed of rice, garnished with fresh coriander. Dinner is served! Enjoy the compliments you’ll undoubtedly receive!
Variations on Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Spicy Butter Chicken
If you crave a little heat in your Crock Pot Butter Chicken, consider ramping up the spice! By swapping in a spicier curry powder, like madras, or adding half a teaspoon of chili powder during cooking, you can create a version that packs a punch. For an extra kick, throw in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper, and watch your guests' faces light up (or maybe sweat a bit)!
Vegetarian Option
Looking for a meat-free alternative? Simply replace the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can also add an assortment of veggies like bell peppers, spinach, and cauliflower to the mix for added texture and flavor. By incorporating these ingredients, you’ll still enjoy that beloved creamy, aromatic sauce, making it a win-win for all!
For more interesting variations, check out this guide to vegetarian curries for additional inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Creating the perfect Crock Pot Butter Chicken can elevate your dinner game with minimal effort. Here are some handy tips to ensure success:
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Prep Ahead: Chop your ingredients the night before to save time on busy days. Just throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning!
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Customize Your Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a hotter curry powder. Adjust to fit your and your family’s taste!
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Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: For the best flavors and tenderness, stick to the recommended cooking times: 4-5 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low. Remember, patience pays off!
Explore more about slow cooking techniques at America's Test Kitchen.
With these tips, your Crock Pot Butter Chicken is sure to impress!
Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Crock Pot Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
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Serve over Rice: Traditional basmati rice is perfect, but consider quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. The grains soak up the creamy sauce splendidly.
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Pair with Naan: Warm, fluffy naan or garlic naan can be a fantastic addition. It’s great for scooping up that rich, spiced sauce.
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Add Fresh Vegetables: Serve alongside a simple cucumber raita or a side salad with fresh greens. This adds a refreshing contrast to the coconutty flavors.
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Garnish with Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh coriander not only looks great but adds an aromatic finish.
These suggestions can make your Crock Pot Butter Chicken dinner feel extra special! Explore more ideas for complementary dishes here to enhance your meal.
Time Breakdown for Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Preparation Time
Getting ready for your Crock Pot Butter Chicken is a breeze with just 20 minutes of prep. Chop those onions, mince your garlic, and gather all the essential spices to set the stage for a savory feast.
Cook Time
Set your slow cooker for a cook time of 5 hours on high, or if you have a little more time, opt for 6 to 8 hours on low. Just picture it—your kitchen filled with the warmth of a rich, aromatic curry while you go about your day!
Total Time
In total, you'll need about 5 hours and 20 minutes to enjoy this delightful dish. Just combine a bit of prep and patience, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Crock Pot Butter Chicken
When savoring this delicious Crock Pot Butter Chicken, you can feel good about what you're eating! Here are the key nutritional facts to keep in mind:
- Calories: Each serving contains approximately 311 calories, making it a hearty yet manageable option for dinner.
- Protein: Packed with around 27 grams of protein per serving, this dish is perfect for those looking to meet their protein needs.
- Sodium: It contains about 620 mg of sodium, typical for flavorful curries, but feel free to adjust this by using low-sodium chicken stock.
For a deeper dive into the nutritional content or alternatives, you could check out resources like NutritionData or consult your favorite nutritional guide. Enjoy your meal without guilt!
FAQs about Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken in your Crock Pot Butter Chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly. Frozen chicken may need an additional hour or so, depending on your slow cooker. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) for perfect tenderness and safety.
How do I store leftover butter chicken?
Storing leftover Crock Pot Butter Chicken is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or a pot on the stove until heated through.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Crock Pot Butter Chicken is excellent for freezing! After it cools, place servings in freezer-safe containers. It will remain fresh for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion on Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Crock Pot Butter Chicken is the ultimate cozy meal, effortlessly bringing delicious Indian flavors to your dinner table. With its rich, creamy sauce, it's perfect over rice and sure to please everyone in the family. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work—making mealtime stress-free! For more culinary inspiration, check out Nicky's Kitchen for additional recipes!
Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Crock Pot
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon 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 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 240 ml chicken stock (1 cup) water plus a stock cube or bouillon for gluten free is fine
- 2 400ml tins of chopped tomatoes (2 x 14 oz)
- 2 tablespoon tomato puree paste for US
- 2 teaspoon sugar
- 6 cardamom pods 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
Instructions
- Preheat your slow cooker to high.
- Heat the butter and oil in a large pan, add in the onion and chicken, and cook for 5-6 minutes until the onions are softened and the chicken is sealed.
- Add in the garlic, ginger, salt, garam masala, curry powder, paprika and cinnamon. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add in the stock, tinned tomatoes, tomato puree, sugar and cardamom. Stir then pour into your slow cooker and cook for 4-5 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.
- Remove the cardamom then stir in the cream and allow to heat through.
- Serve over rice sprinkled with some coriander.
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