Master Slow Cooker Butter Chicken at Home!
Skip the takeout and embrace the delightful aroma of homemade Butter Chicken wafting through your kitchen. This classic Indian dish, known for its tender chicken in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, is surprisingly easy to prepare in your trusty slow cooker.
Effortless Elegance: Slow Cooker Magic
While ordering from your favourite Indian restaurant might seem tempting, creating this flavourful dish at home is not only more budget-friendly but also allows you to control the spice level and quality of ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cubed)
- Plain yogurt
- Curry powder
- Garam masala
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Tomato puree
- Coconut milk
- Heavy cream
- Butter
- Vegetable oil
- Onion (diced)
- Spices (e.g., chili powder, turmeric, paprika)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Simplicity:
- Marinate the Magic: Combine yogurt, curry powder, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, and half of the cubed chicken in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
- Sautéing for Depth: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the remaining chicken and cook until golden brown. Set aside.
- Building the Base: In the same pan, sauté onions until softened. Add tomato puree, spices, and cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slow Cooker Symphony: Transfer the sautéed onions and spices to your slow cooker. Add marinated chicken, coconut milk, and a splash of water. Season with salt and pepper.
- Low and Slow Perfection: Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and falling off the bone.
- Creamy Dream: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in heavy cream and butter. Adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Basmati Bliss: Serve your slow cooker Butter Chicken over fluffy basmati rice and garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of colour and flavour.
Beyond the Basics: Customization Cravings
Feel free to personalize your Butter Chicken experience! Here are some ideas:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a touch of heat.
- Veggie Delight: Include chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas during the sautéing stage.
- Naan Nirvana: Pair your Butter Chicken with warm, soft naan bread for the ultimate scooping experience.
- Leftover Love: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
Embrace the joy of creating restaurant-quality dishes at home with your slow cooker. This flavourful Butter Chicken recipe is sure to become a family favourite, offering a delicious and comforting escape any night of the week.