Crockpot Butter Chicken: The Ultimate Easy Crockpot Meal 🥘🍗✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a delicious, foolproof way to enjoy flavorful, tender chicken without spending hours in the kitchen, then Crockpot Butter Chicken is your perfect solution. This iconic Crockpot Food Recipe combines rich, buttery sauce with juicy chicken, creating a comforting meal that is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you’re a fan of Crockpot Sauce Recipes or looking for the Best Easy Crockpot Meals, this recipe hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s a fantastic choice for dinner ideas that everyone will love!
2. Ingredients you need for the best Crockpot Butter Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken tenderloins or boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
For more delicious chicken ideas, check out our chicken recipes collection.
3. How to Prepare Crockpot Butter Chicken: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken tenderloins or breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper and set aside. You can also use crockpot chicken for various soup recipes if you’d like to diversify your crockpot meals.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine tomato sauce, heavy cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, garam masala, cumin, and smoked paprika. Whisk until well blended. This versatile Crockpot Sauce Recipes base creates the rich flavor profile characteristic of this dish.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot
Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the Crockpot (preferably a Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker) and pour the sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This is a classic Crockpot Food Recipe perfect for busy days.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Once cooked, give everything a gentle stir. For extra richness, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve this crockpot chicken over rice or with warm naan bread. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables like chicken and broccoli pasta.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Crockpot Butter Chicken
Store leftovers in an airtight container such as the JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, transfer to a freezer-safe container and enjoy within 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick, healthy meal prep Crock Pot style. Discover more ways to make Back To School Crockpot Dinners that are perfect for busy families.
5. Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Butter Chicken
This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or cauliflower rice for a comforting Crockpot Meal Prep Crock Pot. For a low-carb option, serve with roasted vegetables or a side of naan. You can also add a fresh cucumber salad for a cooling contrast or a sprinkle of extra cilantro for garnish. Explore dinner ideas that make use of crockpot recipes like this butter chicken.
6. Tips for Making the Perfect Crockpot Butter Chicken
- Use chicken tenderloins for quicker cooking and tender texture.
- Adjust spice levels according to your preferences—add more garam masala or cayenne for heat.
- For creamier sauce, blend a bit of coconut milk or heavy cream into the sauce before serving.
- Choose a slow cooker with a capacity of at least 6 quarts for larger servings.
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7. Variations & Customizations
- Switch up the protein—try with chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Make it spicier by adding red chili flakes or hot sauce.
- For a tangy flavor, add a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Discover more crockpot ideas and customize your meals with our crockpot recipes collection.
8. FAQs About Crockpot Butter Chicken
Can I make crockpot butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble and cook as directed, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving for the perfect meal.
Is crockpot butter chicken healthy?
When made with light cream or coconut milk and lean chicken, this recipe can be a wholesome and healthy easy healthy meal prep crock pot option. Adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs.
What to serve with crockpot butter chicken?
This dish is best served over rice, with naan bread, or alongside roasted vegetables like cauliflower or green beans. It makes an excellent Crockpot recipes over rice.
9. Conclusion
In summary, Crockpot Butter Chicken is a delicious, hassle-free way to enjoy a flavorful, creamy chicken dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or cozy family dinners. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and versatile serving options, this easy healthy meal prep crock pot recipe promises all the comfort of traditional butter chicken with the convenience of slow cooking. Try it today and elevate your crockpot meal game!
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Crockpot Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 10 minutes prep + 6-8 hours cook
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Nut-Free
Description
Crockpot Butter Chicken is a creamy and flavorful slow cooker meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Juicy chicken simmered in a rich, buttery tomato sauce with aromatic spices creates a comforting and delicious dish that everyone will love. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this crockpot recipe offers an effortless way to enjoy authentic Indian-inspired flavors at home.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken tenderloins or boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by cutting the chicken tenderloins or breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine tomato sauce, heavy cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, garam masala, cumin, and smoked paprika. Whisk until well blended.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the crockpot and pour the sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, give everything a gentle stir. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired.
- Serve over rice or with naan bread, accompanied by side dishes like steamed vegetables or salad.
Notes
- Use chicken tenderloins for quicker cooking and tender texture.
- Adjust spice levels according to your preferences—add more garam masala or cayenne for heat.
- For a creamier sauce, blend a bit of coconut milk or heavy cream into the sauce before serving.
- Choose a slow cooker with at least 6 quarts capacity for larger servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low / 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
