Introduction

Crockpot Butter Chicken with Naan Bread is a rich, creamy, and aromatic dish that brings the flavors of Indian cuisine right into your home. This slow-cooked version allows chicken to become tender and juicy, while simmering in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with butter, cream, and a blend of traditional Indian spices.

Paired with soft, warm naan bread, this dish transforms a simple dinner into a restaurant-quality experience without hours of effort in the kitchen. The slow cooker not only makes preparation easy but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deeply satisfying, comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s hands-off yet delivers a bold and authentic flavor. The slow cooker ensures the chicken cooks perfectly while soaking up the richness of the creamy, spiced tomato sauce. The aroma of spices—garam masala, cumin, and coriander—fills the kitchen, creating an irresistible anticipation for mealtime.

Adding naan bread on the side makes it a complete experience, allowing you to scoop up the luscious sauce and tender chicken, making every bite satisfying.

Why This Dish Is a Must-Try

This dish is a must-try because it takes the classic Indian favorite and makes it effortless at home. The slow-cooked chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the sauce is rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced between sweet, tangy, and spiced.

Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Crockpot Butter Chicken with Naan will impress family, friends, and even yourself with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 15–20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4–6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
• Total Time: 4–6 hours
• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: ~500–550 kcal per serving (including sauce)
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Indian / Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (15 oz / 400 g) tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp chili powder or paprika (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sugar or honey (optional, to balance acidity)
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• To Serve: Naan bread (store-bought or homemade)

Cooking Directions

1. Prep chicken: Pat chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, heat oil and lightly sauté onions, garlic, and ginger for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Optional: This step adds depth of flavor.
3. Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Add chicken, sautéed onion mixture, tomato puree, butter, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, pepper, and sugar/honey. Stir to combine.
4. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours until chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Add cream: Stir in heavy cream or coconut cream and cook on low for an additional 15–20 minutes to heat through.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with naan bread for dipping.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cut chicken into chunks and season with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in oil for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Place chicken, sautéed aromatics, tomato puree, butter, and spices into slow cooker.
4. Cook on low 4–6 hours or high 2–3 hours.
5. Stir in cream and cook another 15–20 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with naan bread.

How to Serve

• Scoop butter chicken with warm naan bread.
• Serve alongside basmati rice for a complete meal.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro and a drizzle of cream for a professional touch.
• Optional sides: cucumber raita, pickled vegetables, or a simple salad.

Recipe Tips

• Use chicken thighs for juicier, more tender results.
• Adjust spice levels according to taste.
• Sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger before slow cooking enhances flavor but is optional.
• Stir in cream at the end to prevent curdling.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors meld.

Variations

• Coconut Butter Chicken: Use coconut milk or cream instead of dairy for a dairy-free version.
• Spicy Version: Add more chili powder, cayenne, or fresh chopped chilies.
• Vegetable Butter Chicken: Add bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Instant Pot Version: Cook under high pressure for 15–20 minutes for a quicker option.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked butter chicken (without naan) for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to adjust consistency if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker / crockpot (5–6 quart recommended)
• Skillet (optional, for sautéing aromatics)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, but thighs remain juicier. Breasts may dry slightly if overcooked.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, use coconut milk or coconut cream instead of heavy cream and butter.

Q: Can I prep this ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, refrigerate overnight, and cook the next day.

Q: Can I serve this with rice instead of naan?
A: Absolutely! Basmati or jasmine rice pairs perfectly.

Q: Can I increase the spice level?
A: Add extra chili powder, cayenne, or fresh chilies to taste.

Conclusion

Crockpot Butter Chicken with Naan Bread is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Indian cuisine straight to your kitchen. With tender, slow-cooked chicken, aromatic spices, and a luscious tomato-cream sauce, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy weeknight meal. Paired with warm naan, it’s a complete, flavorful, and satisfying meal that will become a favorite in your household.