Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 5 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons fresh ginger (grated); 16 oz (450 g) tomato sauce (or passata); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; ½ teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon granulated sugar (or honey); 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small cubes); ½ cup (120 ml) heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro

If you’ve ever dreamed of a Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe that’s both bursting with flavor and hassle-free, this one’s going to become your new favorite. Tender chicken thighs slowly simmer in a rich, spiced tomato sauce with butter and cream — perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing friends without breaking a sweat.

The image shows a close-up of a slow cooker filled with creamy orange curry with chunks of cooked chicken. The curry sauce is thick and smooth, covering the chicken pieces that appear tender and soft. Small green cilantro pieces are sprinkled over the top, adding a fresh color contrast. A black ladle is partially dipping into the curry on the right side, mixing the sauce. The slow cooker has a black rim around the inside. The photo is taken on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This butter chicken recipe holds a special place in my heart—I often make it on busy days when I want something comforting yet impressive. It’s effortless thanks to the slow cooker, and the flavors? Absolutely unbeatable.

Effortless Cooking: Toss everything in the slow cooker and walk away; dinner practically makes itself.
Richly Flavorful: The blend of garam masala, cumin, and smoked paprika creates authentic Indian-inspired depth without being intimidating.
Perfectly Tender Chicken: Using chicken thighs keeps the meat juicy and melt-in-your-mouth soft after slow cooking.
Family Friendly: Mildly spiced but so creamy, this dish pleases kids and adults alike.

Ingredients & Why They Work

When I shop for this slow cooker butter chicken, I look for fresh spices and quality chicken thighs to get the tastiest results. You’ll want tomato sauce or passata that’s smooth and flavorful since it’s the base of this creamy sauce.

Flat lay of peeled garlic cloves arranged neatly, fresh ginger root with a section grated, a simple white ceramic bowl filled with smooth bright red tomato sauce, a small white bowl holding warm-toned ground cumin powder, another white bowl with fragrant garam masala powder, a white bowl containing smoked paprika in deep red color, a white bowl with bright yellow ground turmeric, a tiny white bowl of fiery red chili powder, a white bowl with coarse salt crystals, a small white bowl with fine granulated sugar, plump raw chicken thighs with the skin on, several small cubes of pale yellow unsalted butter scattered artfully, a white bowl filled with thick creamy heavy whipping cream, and a small bunch of fresh green cilantro leaves arranged delicately, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Garlic: Adds pungent aroma and depth, essential for any great curry.
Fresh Ginger: Brings warmth and a subtle spicy zing that brightens the sauce.
Tomato Sauce (or Passata): Creates a rich, smooth foundation for the curry’s creamy texture.
Ground Cumin: Offers earthy undertones that complement the tomato base perfectly.
Garam Masala: The heart of the spice blend; it infuses warmth and complexity.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky depth without overpowering the dish.
Ground Turmeric: Provides color and gentle bitterness to balance the creaminess.
Chili Powder: Just a touch for mild heat; you can adjust to your taste.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in every bite.
Granulated Sugar (or Honey): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a well-rounded sauce.
Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, they’re perfect for slow cooking without drying out.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and velvety texture to the sauce.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and smooth.
Fresh Parsley, Mint, or Cilantro: Brightens the finished dish with a fresh herbal note.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The beauty of this Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is how easy it is to customize to your taste or dietary needs. Whether you want to dial down the heat, add some fresh veggies, or switch up the creaminess, there’s room for you to make it truly your own!

Dairy-Free Delight: I swapped the butter and heavy cream for coconut cream and vegan butter once, and it turned out wonderfully rich and just as comforting—perfect for guests with dairy sensitivities.
Mild & Gentle: If you’re cooking for little ones or prefer less spice, I usually halve the chili powder. It keeps that lovely warmth without overwhelming the palate.
Veggie Boost: Sometimes, I throw in some chopped bell peppers or spinach during the last hour of cooking. It adds freshness and a pop of color, making the dish even more vibrant.
Lean Option: While chicken thighs deliver that tender juiciness, chicken breasts work fine too if you want a leaner meal—just keep an eye on cooking time so they don’t dry out.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

The first image shows a black slow cooker with a bright red sauce at the bottom, topped with white salt, light brown spices, and small pieces of minced garlic, all mixed on a white marbled surface. The second image reveals raw pale pink chicken pieces placed over the red sauce inside the same black slow cooker. Next, the third image has small yellow cubes of butter spread evenly on top of the sauce and chicken inside the cooker. The fourth image presents the contents simmering with visible bubbling and a mixture of red sauce and melted butter creating an oily layer on the surface. The fifth image shows a woman's hand slicing cooked chicken, now a deep red color from the sauce, on a white cutting board on a white marbled surface. The final image captures the slow cooker filled with a creamy orange sauce coating chunks of chicken, with a black spoon resting inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Build Your Flavor Base

Start by adding the minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, and tomato sauce to your slow cooker. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, garam masala, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and a pinch of sugar. Give it a good stir so all those spices meld beautifully with the tomato base. You’ll already start smelling those warm, inviting aromas—this is the moment your kitchen begins to feel like an Indian eatery!

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Next, nestle your chicken thighs into the sauce and gently stir to coat them well. This ensures every juicy bit is infused with those aromatic spices. Don’t rush this step—it’s all about even coating for a rich, flavorful bite every time.

Step 3: Butter It Up and Slow Cook

Scatter the small cubes of cold, unsalted butter right over the chicken and sauce. Then cover, and let your slow cooker do the magic. Cook on HIGH for about 1 hour 30 minutes or LOW for 4 to 6 hours. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken hits 165°F—this is the key to tender, juicy perfection. The butter slowly melts in, enriching the sauce with its silky goodness.

Step 4: Rest and Refine

Carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board to cool just enough to handle safely. Meanwhile, stir the heavy whipping cream into the sauce left behind in the pot. Whisk it gently until your sauce turns luxuriously creamy and smooth—this is the hallmark of your Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe.

Step 5: Chop and Combine

Cut the tender chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return them to the creamy sauce. Give everything a gentle stir, ensuring each piece is drenched in that luscious curry sauce. This step pulls the dish together in a delicious final embrace.

Step 6: Serve and Brighten Up

Serve your butter chicken hot alongside a fluffy mound of basmati rice and warm, soft naan bread. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, mint, or cilantro on top for that burst of color and fresh flavor that lifts the whole dish. Trust me, this finishing touch makes all the difference!

Top Tip

Mastering the Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe is all about balancing flavors and texture. These insider tips will help you get the most tender, juicy chicken and a luxuriously creamy sauce every time.

Choose the Right Cut: I always use chicken thighs for this recipe because they stay moist and tender through the slow cooking process—breasts tend to dry out.
Don’t Skip the Butter Cubes: Adding small cubes of unsalted butter throughout the cooking boosts richness and helps the sauce develop a silky texture.
Watch Your Cooking Time: Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer to make sure the chicken hits 165°F but isn't overcooked. This guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat meat.
Finish with Cream Off Heat: Stir the heavy whipping cream into the sauce after removing the chicken from the cooker to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe

A white bowl shows two main parts: on the left, fluffy white rice with some green herb bits scattered on top; on the right, an orange creamy curry with chunks of chicken covered in sauce, also sprinkled with small green herb pieces. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with a small glass bowl of green herbs nearby. The colors contrast well, with the white rice and vibrant orange curry side by side, giving a fresh and warm feeling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or parsley add a vibrant, fresh contrast to the rich sauce. Sprinkle them just before serving for a burst of color and brightness that really elevates the dish.

Side Dishes

This creamy slow cooker butter chicken pairs beautifully with fragrant basmati rice to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. Warm naan bread or homemade roti are perfect for scooping and add a lovely chewy texture that complements the dish's richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooking, let the butter chicken cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate leftovers safely for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well! Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from separating.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily in slow cookers. To keep them tender, consider reducing the cook time slightly and monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe very spicy?

Not at all! The chili powder is just half a teaspoon and can be reduced or omitted if you prefer a milder dish. The warmth mainly comes from aromatic spices, so it’s flavorful without overwhelming heat.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter and heavy whipping cream with vegan butter and coconut cream to create a delicious dairy-free version that still tastes creamy and indulgent.

How long does it take to cook in a slow cooker?

You can cook the butter chicken on HIGH for 1 hour 30 minutes or on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. The key is ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and tasty results.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Recipe has become one of my go-to dinners because it’s effortless and comforting without sacrificing incredible flavor. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers tender, juicy chicken bathed in a luscious sauce that feels truly special. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—and savor every cozy bite!