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Slow Cooker Butter Chicken & Rice

Slow Cooker Butter Chicken & Rice
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A comforting and creamy Slow Cooker Butter Chicken & Rice recipe featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich buttery tomato sauce with fragrant rice, all effortlessly prepared in one pot.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables & Aromatics

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

Spices

  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Liquids

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk (for dairy-free option)

Grains

  • 1 cup long grain or basmati rice, rinsed

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken and spices: Chop the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Combine with freshly minced garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and salt. Mix thoroughly so each piece is well coated with the aromatic spices.
  2. Layer ingredients in the slow cooker: Melt the butter in the slow cooker if possible, then add the chopped onions and sauté briefly or add them raw for a softer texture. Add the spiced chicken pieces, followed by the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and finally spread the rinsed uncooked rice evenly on top. Avoid stirring to let rice absorb the flavors during cooking.
  3. Slow cook the dish: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken and allows the rice to soak up the rich buttery tomato sauce.
  4. Stir in cream and finish: Once fully cooked, gently stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk to create a silky smooth sauce. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to deepen flavors.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for even more flavorful, juicy results.
  • Rinse rice before cooking to prevent starchiness and ensure fluffy grains.
  • Pre-toast spices lightly before mixing for deeper aroma.
  • Add cream at the end of cooking to avoid curdling and keep sauce smooth.
  • Adjust liquid quantity and cook time if using brown rice instead of white rice.
  • Avoid over-stirring during cooking to prevent mushy rice or broken chicken pieces.

Nutrition

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

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