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Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken: Effortless Comfort Food Magic

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) is a creamy and flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting feast.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 430
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 large Onion Provides a flavor base and sweetness; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Enhances the aromatic profile; fresh garlic is preferred for the best flavor.
  • 28 ounces Canned Tomatoes Forms the base of the sauce; passata can be used for a smoother texture.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger Adds warmth and depth; fresh ginger or ginger paste is recommended.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Balances flavors with acidity; lime juice can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Garam Masala Spice blend that brings authenticity; adjust the amount based on spice tolerance.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adds earthiness to the dish; coriander can replace it for a different flavor note.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric Offers color and health benefits; fresh turmeric root can also be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Provides smoky notes; standard paprika can replace it if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for taste; adjust according to personal preference.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne Gives heat to the dish; omit or reduce for a milder version.
For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Chicken Thighs Tender cut that cooks well in slow cookers; chicken breasts can be used but may dry out.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness to the sauce; can exclude for a lighter version.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Makes the dish creamy and indulgent; substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
For Garnish
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Coriander (Cilantro) Used for garnish, adding freshness and color; it's perfect to brighten up the dish.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

How to Make Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
  1. Start by blending the onion, garlic, canned tomatoes, ginger, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, salt, and cayenne in a food processor until smooth. This flavorful concoction is the heart of your dish!
  2. Cut the chicken thighs into large pieces and trim any excess fat. This helps ensure even cooking and tenderness throughout.
  3. Add your creamy sauce mixture along with the prepared chicken into the slow cooker. Stir well to coat the chicken pieces evenly—this is where the magic begins!
  4. Cover the slow cooker and set it to HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5 hours. The chicken should be tender and infused with flavors by the end of cooking.
  5. Once cooked, stir in the unsalted butter until it's melted, followed by the heavy cream. Gently warm through and adjust seasoning if needed for that final touch.
  6. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve over fragrant basmati rice or cauliflower rice for a truly comforting meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 430kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 32gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 140mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish can be customized for dietary preferences and reheats well. Consider freezing meal-sized portions for quick dinners.

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