Name: Crock Pot Butter Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 300 min
Total time: 320 min
Ingredients: 3 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp 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 tsp minced ginger; 1 tsp salt; 1.5 tbsp garam masala; 1 tbsp curry powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cinnamon; 240 ml chicken stock (water plus a stock cube or bouillon for gluten free is fine); 2 cans chopped tomatoes (2 x 400ml (2 x 14 oz)); 2 tbsp tomato puree (for US); 2 tsp sugar; 6 pods cardamom (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)

Introduction to Crock Pot Butter Chicken

The Appeal of Homemade Meals in a Busy Life

In our fast-paced world, the allure of homemade meals is more relevant than ever. Whipping up a comforting dish like Crock Pot Butter Chicken brings not just nourishment but a sense of fulfillment. Nothing beats the aroma of spices wafting through your home after a long day. Plus, cooking at home often means healthier options, as you have control over the ingredients you use.

Why Choose Slow Cooking for Busy Professionals?

For busy professionals, slow cooking can be a veritable game changer. Imagine coming home to a warm, fragrant meal ready to serve. By simply tossing ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, you can focus on your work without the stress of evening meal prep. Slow cookers, like the one I adore, the Crock Pot CSC024, make it easy to prepare delicious dishes while you tackle your to-do list. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a flavorful butter chicken that warms the soul and satisfies the taste buds.

So, if you’re seeking a delightful escape from the daily grind, this Crock Pot Butter Chicken recipe might just be your new favorite weekday staple! For a full breakdown of the recipe, keep reading.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Essential ingredients for a flavorful dish

To create a delicious Crock Pot Butter Chicken, you'll need a combination of rich, aromatic ingredients. Here’s what you should gather:

Butter and Oil: For sautéing that adds richness and depth.
Onion: One large diced onion introduces sweetness.
Chicken: Approximately 700g (1.5 lbs) of diced chicken breast keeps it lean and protein-packed.
Garlic and Ginger: Four cloves of garlic and a teaspoon of minced ginger give a vibrant kick.
Spices: A blend of garam masala, curry powder, paprika, salt, and cinnamon elevates the flavor profile.
Tomatoes: Two cans of chopped tomatoes create a savory sauce.
Cream: Half a cup of double or heavy cream adds a luxuriously creamy texture.

Optional add-ins for customization

Want to adjust flavors or enhance your Crock Pot Butter Chicken? Here are some tasty add-ins to consider:

Vegetables: Peas, spinach, or bell peppers introduce nutrition and color.
Heat: For those who like it spicy, add chili powder or cayenne pepper.
Sweetness: A drizzle of honey can counterbalance the spices wonderfully.

Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!

Preparing Crock Pot Butter Chicken

If you're looking for a flavorful and easy meal that will delight your taste buds, Crock Pot Butter Chicken is the answer! This cozy dish requires minimal effort and packs a punch with its aromatic spices. Let’s walk through the steps to prepare this delicious meal!

Gather and prep your ingredients

Before diving in, let’s get everything organized. Here’s what you’ll need for your Crock Pot Butter Chicken:

Proteins and Fats:
Chicken breast (approx. 700 g / 1.5 lbs)
Butter and vegetable oil
Veggies & Aromatics:
1 large onion, diced
Fresh garlic and ginger
Spices:
Garam masala, curry powder, paprika, cinnamon, and salt
Liquids:
Chicken stock, canned chopped tomatoes, and tomato puree
Finishing Touches:
Double/heavy cream and chopped coriander for garnish

Taking a moment to prep your ingredients—like dicing the chicken and chopping the onion—can save time during cooking.

Sautéing the base to build flavor

While it sounds tempting to toss everything into the slow cooker, taking a few extra minutes to sauté can really enhance the dish’s flavor.

Heat the butter and vegetable oil in a large pan over a medium flame.
Once hot, add the diced onion and chicken. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the onions are soft and the chicken is sealed, creating that delicious golden brown color.
Add in your garlic, ginger, salt, and spices (garam masala, curry powder, paprika, and cinnamon). Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.

This step is essential! It helps meld the flavors together right from the start.

Layering the ingredients in the slow cooker

After building up your base, it’s time to layer the ingredients in your slow cooker:

Pour the sautéed onion and chicken mixture into the slow cooker.
Add chicken stock, chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, sugar, and those cardamom pods (just remember to fish them out later).

Stir everything well, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed before sealing your slow cooker.

Cooking time and temperature settings

Now that your Crock Pot Butter Chicken is ready, it’s time to set the cooking parameters.

For a faster meal, cook on high for about 4-5 hours.
For a more relaxed pace, you can set it to low for 6-8 hours.

This flexibility is what makes the slow cooker so convenient—just set it and forget it (for a while)!

Finishing touches before serving

Once the cooking time is up, remove the cardamom pods and stir in the double/heavy cream, allowing it to heat through. This final step will give your dish that signature richness that makes butter chicken so comforting.

Don’t forget to serve it over rice, topping it with a handful of chopped coriander for that fresh burst of flavor. Enjoy your beautifully prepared Crock Pot Butter Chicken with family or friends, knowing that your easy recipe will impress everyone at the table!

For more fantastic recipes or tips on slow cooking, check out BBC Good Food for inspiration!

Variations on Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Spicy Butter Chicken Twist

If you're looking to kick up the flavor in your Crock Pot Butter Chicken, try adding some heat! Incorporate a tablespoon of chili paste or a few diced fresh chilies into your spice mix. For an extra flavor burst, use madras curry powder instead of the regular kind. This spicy twist offers a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce, perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their meals.

Vegetarian Option for a Plant-Based Version

Craving a vegetarian take on this classic dish? Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or paneer, and keep everything else the same. You can also add in some chopped spinach or cauliflower for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember, if you use paneer, add it during the last hour of cooking to keep it tender. This plant-based Crock Pot Butter Chicken variation is just as satisfying and delicious!

For more ideas, explore recipes at BBC Good Food or Minimalist Baker.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Importance of Browning the Chicken

Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker may seem like an extra step, but it’s a game changer for flavor! This process caramelizes the proteins and gives your Crock Pot Butter Chicken a deeper, richer taste. Don’t rush it—take a few extra minutes to seal in those delicious juices. You'll be glad you did!

Tips for Using Fresh vs. Dried Spices

When it comes to spices, freshness matters! Fresh spices deliver vibrant flavors, while dried spices provide a more mellow taste. If you’re using dried spices, ensure they’re not past their prime. A good rule of thumb is to replace them every six months. For maximum impact, try to use a mix of both—perhaps fresh ginger paired with dried garam masala. This combination optimizes layers of flavor in your dish, elevating your Crock Pot Butter Chicken to restaurant-quality!

Using high-quality spices can greatly enhance your dish’s flavor profile. Check out this guide from Epicurious for more tips on spice usage.

Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Perfect Rice Pairings

Who can resist the delightful pairing of crock pot butter chicken with perfectly cooked rice? For a classic combination, serve your butter chicken over fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up all those rich flavors. If you're feeling adventurous, try jasmine rice for its subtly sweet aroma or coconut rice for a tropical twist. For those looking to cut carbs, cauliflower rice is an excellent, healthy alternative that still brings that satisfying texture.

Creative Side Dishes to Complement the Meal

To elevate your crock pot butter chicken experience, consider these creative side dishes:

Naan Bread: Perfect for scooping up the sauce, store-bought or homemade naan will delight your guests.
Cucumber Raita: A cool and refreshing yogurt and cucumber dip can balance the spice beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini drizzled with olive oil add a touch of color and nutrition.
Simple Salad: A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette can cleanse the palate and add freshness.

With these suggestions, you can transform your crock pot butter chicken dinner into a delightful feast! Don’t forget to check out more serving ideas over at BBC Good Food for inspiration!

Time Details for Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Preparation Time

Getting ready for this delicious Crock Pot Butter Chicken only takes about 20 minutes. That's just enough time to chop your ingredients and warm up your slow cooker!

Cooking Time

Once everything is in your slow cooker, let it work its magic for 5 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low. You can relax or tackle other tasks while it simmers to perfection!

Total Time

In total, you're looking at around 5 hours and 20 minutes from prep to plate. Trust me, the wait is well worth it for this rich, creamy delight!

For more tips on slow cooking, check out The Kitchn for guidance on enhancing your crock pot experience!

Nutritional information for Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Calories per serving

Each serving of this cozy Crock Pot Butter Chicken packs approximately 311 calories. This makes it a wholesome choice for a filling dinner without overindulging. Pair it with rice, and you have a delightful meal!

Key macronutrients breakdown

Let’s delve into the macronutrients:

Protein: 27g – Great for muscle repair and keeping you full longer!
Carbohydrates: 8g – Perfect for a low-carb option.
Fat: 19g – Includes healthy fats, providing flavor and richness.

This dish balances flavors and nutrition beautifully, ensuring you enjoy both taste and health. If you’re keen on tracking nutrients, you can delve into more detailed information on Eat This, Not That!!

FAQs about Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! One of the best things about Crock Pot Butter Chicken is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge to throw into the slow cooker later. If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container for up to three days, or you can freeze them for even longer. Just reheat before serving!

How can I adjust the heat level?

To tweak the spice level of your Crock Pot Butter Chicken, consider using a spicier curry powder, such as madras, or add a bit of chili powder during cooking. Tasting and adjusting is key, so give it a try and find your sweet spot. Want a milder option? Skip the chili altogether and rely on the rich flavors of your spices.

What sides pair best with butter chicken?

When it comes to pairing, classic choices include fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up that creamy sauce. You can also go for a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a colorful, balanced meal. Don’t forget, the right sides enhance your Crock Pot Butter Chicken experience!

Conclusion on Crock Pot Butter Chicken

Cooking at home, like this Crock Pot Butter Chicken, not only saves money but also allows you to control ingredients and flavors, promoting healthier eating habits. Have you tried making this dish? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Your feedback can inspire others to create their own delicious meals!