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Bowl of Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken garnished with cilantro against a neutral background

Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken

This Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken is a time-saving, delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy tender chicken in a rich homemade butter chicken sauce with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 chicken breasts boneless skinless
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 jalapeno finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • 8 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/4 cup cilantro fresh, chopped

Method
 

  1. In a large ziplock bag the night before, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, cinnamon, cayenne, black pepper, ground ginger, and kosher salt. Add the chicken breasts, seal, and massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate overnight.
  2. When ready to cook, scrape off most of the marinade and discard it. Cut the chicken into 2-inch chunks.
  3. Melt the butter in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the minced garlic and chopped jalapeno, stirring to combine.
  4. Arrange the chicken on top of the garlic mixture.
  5. In a bowl, mix 2 teaspoons of cumin, paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, tomato sauce, and cream until smooth. Pour over the chicken.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
  7. Mix cornstarch with water, then quickly stir it into the slow cooker. Switch to high and let cook for another 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Feel free to pair it with rice or naan!

Notes

Pro Tip: Pre-minced garlic and a jar of pre-chopped jalapenos can save even more time in the kitchen!