If you’re looking for a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug, you’ve just found your new favorite with this Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken & Rice Meal Recipe. Imagine tender chicken thighs melting in a spiced, creamy tomato sauce, all effortlessly cooked low and slow to let flavors bloom. Paired with fluffy basmati rice, this dish is an absolute winner for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a rich, satisfying meal without the fuss. It’s a delightful balance of Indian-inspired spices and creamy indulgence that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each component is chosen to bring richness, warmth, and a lovely depth to the dish, ensuring every bite is bursting with savory goodness and comforting creaminess.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Perfectly tender and juicy after slow cooking, thighs are the star protein here.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant, savory base that complements all the spices.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated: Offers a fresh, zesty kick to brighten the dish.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a rich, tangy foundation for the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Balances acidity and enhances the sauce’s silkiness.
- 3 tbsp butter: Essential for that signature butter chicken richness and flavor.
- 2 tbsp garam masala: The aromatic spice blend that gives this dish its soul.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Adds earthiness and warmth.
- 1 tsp paprika: Offers mild smokiness along with vibrant color.
- 1/2 tsp turmeric: A pinch of golden color and subtle earthy notes.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a touch of heat to awaken the palate.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds gentle bite and complexity.
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked basmati rice: Fluffy and fragrant, the perfect bed for the butter chicken.
- 3 cups water or chicken broth: For cooking the rice, chicken broth adds extra savory depth.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: A fresh, bright finish that lifts the dish.
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken & Rice Meal Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Chicken and Seasonings
Start by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. Then add the chopped onion, garlic, fresh ginger, and the rich tomato sauce. Sprinkle in garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne if you like a bit of heat. Don’t forget the salt and pepper! Stir everything gently to combine, then dot the butter on top to add that signature lusciousness during cooking.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time. This slow, gentle heat breaks down the chicken into tender, flavorful bites and allows the spices to meld beautifully with the tomato base to create a rich, aromatic sauce.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Finish
About half an hour before serving, swirl in the heavy cream and Greek yogurt for that creamy texture and velvety flavor that makes butter chicken so irresistible. Cover and let it cook on low for another 20 to 30 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and all the flavors come together harmoniously.
Step 4: Prepare the Basmati Rice
While the chicken finishes cooking, rinse the basmati rice under cool water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. Then add it to a pot with water or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer gently for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy. Fluff it with a fork before serving to keep the grains light and separate.
How to Serve Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken & Rice Meal Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top is the classic finish here, adding a pop of color and herbal freshness. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon or a few finely sliced green chilies if you want a little extra brightness and zing to balance the richness.
Side Dishes
This meal shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp cucumber raita, warm naan bread for scooping, or a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette to add some crunch and acidity to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the butter chicken over cauliflower rice for a low-carb version or stuff it inside warm pita pockets for an easy hand-held meal. Layer it into a rice bowl with roasted veggies, or even spoon it over baked sweet potatoes to mix up the textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover butter chicken and rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days and tastes even better as the spices continue to mingle overnight. Simply give it a quick reheat and you’re good to go.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Portion the chicken and sauce separately from the rice if possible. Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the butter chicken gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot. Add a splash of water, broth, or cream if the sauce seems thick. Reheat the rice separately or together, fluffing it to revive its fluffy texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat. Just keep in mind that chicken thighs tend to stay moister and more tender in the slow cooker, so they’re generally recommended for the best texture.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?
Absolutely! Swap out the heavy cream and Greek yogurt for full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream. This will give you a lovely creamy texture while keeping it dairy free and lending a subtle tropical twist to the flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
The level of heat is mild by default thanks to the aromatic spices. If you like more of a kick, you can add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder. For less heat, simply omit the cayenne altogether.
Can I cook the rice in the slow cooker with the chicken?
It’s better to cook the rice separately for perfect texture and to prevent it from overcooking or becoming mushy. The stovetop allows you to control the rice better while the chicken simmers slow and steady.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently reheat on low heat in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or broth if the sauce thickens too much as it cools for a creamy consistency just like fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken & Rice Meal Recipe is the kind of dish that brings people together and fills your home with irresistible aromas. It’s simple enough to throw together on a busy day but special enough to wow anyone at the dinner table. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a personal favorite—not to mention a perfect way to enjoy a cozy, flavorful meal without stress. Give it a go and enjoy every bite!
Print
Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken & Rice Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken & Rice Meal is a flavorful and comforting Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce spiced with garam masala and served over fluffy basmati rice. Perfect for an effortless meal with minimal hands-on time, this recipe combines aromatic spices with slow-cooked tenderness for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Butter Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Rice
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked basmati rice
- 3 cups water or chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker Ingredients: Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, tomato sauce, garam masala, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to combine the spices evenly with the chicken and aromatics. Dot the top of the mixture with the butter.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become very tender.
- Add Cream and Yogurt: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and plain Greek yogurt to the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker again and continue cooking on low for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. This step enriches the sauce with creaminess without curdling.
- Cook the Basmati Rice: While the chicken is finishing, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Add rice to a pot along with 3 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork once done.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy butter chicken over a bed of fluffy basmati rice. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro to add brightness and color. Serve warm for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breast for thighs, but thighs tend to remain more tender when slow-cooked.
- For a dairy-free variation, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and Greek yogurt.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Using chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice will add extra flavor.
