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Butter Chicken & Rice (Slow Cooker)

Butter Chicken & Rice (Slow Cooker)
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A comforting and creamy Butter Chicken & Rice slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a fragrant tomato cream sauce with spices, combined with basmati rice for a one-pot, hassle-free Indian-inspired meal perfect for any weeknight or cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs

Rice

  • 1 cup long grain basmati rice, rinsed

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

Liquids & Dairy

  • 1 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for finishing

Spices & Seasoning

  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Sauté diced onions, garlic, and ginger in butter over medium heat until soft and fragrant, building a rich foundation for the sauce.
  2. Add spices and chicken: Stir in garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder; toast briefly with the aromatics. Add chicken thighs, coating them well with the spiced mixture, then transfer everything to the slow cooker.
  3. Combine tomatoes and rice: Pour crushed tomatoes into the slow cooker along with the rinsed basmati rice; stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Slow cook until tender: Cover and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, until the chicken is tender and the rice is fully cooked, absorbing the flavors of the sauce.
  5. Finish with cream and butter: Just before serving, stir in the heavy cream and an extra pat of butter to enrich the sauce and achieve the signature creamy texture.

Notes

  • Rinse basmati rice under cold water to remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
  • Sautéing onions, garlic, and spices before slow cooking enhances the depth of flavor.
  • Chicken thighs remain moist and tender better than breasts during slow cooking.
  • Check rice doneness around 4 hours to prevent overcooking.
  • Give the dish a gentle stir before serving to mix sauce and rice evenly.

Nutrition

Keywords: butter chicken, slow cooker, one-pot meal, Indian recipe, creamy chicken, basmati rice, easy dinner, family-friendly

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/butter-chicken-rice-slow-cooker/