This slow cooker butter chicken is rich, creamy, and full of warm spices, yet mild enough for the whole family to enjoy. Tender chicken slowly cooks in a deeply flavored tomato-based sauce with hidden vegetables, creating a comforting meal that feels special while still being easy enough for a busy weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers authentic-style butter chicken flavor using simple, everyday ingredients. The slow cooker does most of the work, resulting in juicy chicken and a velvety sauce with minimal effort. It is naturally filling, packed with protein and vegetables, and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into large pieces
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
¾ teaspoon salt
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 small cauliflower, cut into florets (about 4 ½ cups)
1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
½ cup half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk
½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

Optional for serving:
Cooked rice, quinoa, naan-style flatbread, chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

Heat the coconut oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until it begins to soften. Stir in the ginger, garlic, curry powder, garam masala, chili powder, salt, and tomato paste. Cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Transfer the onion mixture to a large slow cooker. Place the chicken pieces on top, followed by the cauliflower florets. Pour the tomato sauce over everything and gently stir the cauliflower into the sauce, keeping the chicken mostly underneath. Scatter the butter pieces over the top.

Cover and cook on high for 1½ to 2½ hours or on low for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the chicken to a cutting board and allow it to cool slightly.

Stir the contents of the slow cooker, then continue cooking on high for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, until the cauliflower is very tender.

Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces and return it to the slow cooker. Stir in the half-and-half or coconut milk. Let the mixture cool slightly, then gently stir in the Greek yogurt. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 generous servings.
Preparation time is about 15 minutes.
Cooking time ranges from 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3½ hours on high.

Variations

You can replace the cauliflower with diced potatoes or add peas near the end of cooking for extra vegetables. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter and coconut milk with a dairy-free yogurt. For a lower-carb option, serve the butter chicken over cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and will be even more tender.

Is this butter chicken spicy?

No, it is mildly spiced and flavorful without being hot. You can adjust the chili powder to taste.

Can I make this recipe dairy free?

Yes, substitute coconut oil for butter, coconut milk for half-and-half, and dairy-free yogurt.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?

No, the chicken cooks directly in the slow cooker and stays juicy without browning.

Why add the yogurt at the end?

Adding yogurt at the end prevents curdling and keeps the sauce smooth and creamy.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients the night before and start cooking the next day.

What can I serve with butter chicken?

It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or flatbread, and can also be enjoyed on its own.

Can I freeze butter chicken?

Yes, it freezes very well for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming watery?

Use full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half and avoid light versions, which thin the sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely, it reheats well and maintains its flavor and texture over several days.

Conclusion

Slow cooker butter chicken is the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. With tender chicken, a creamy spiced sauce, and hidden vegetables, it is a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Whether served fresh or enjoyed as leftovers, this dish is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

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