Ingredients

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

3 tablespoons grated ginger

1 tablespoon garam masala

1 6-ounce can tomato paste

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 2-inch pieces

1 teaspoon lime zest

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 cup coconut milk (whisk to combine if separated)

1/2 cup chicken stock

1/4 cup cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Cooked basmati or jasmine rice, for serving

Naan, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium, then add the garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 2: Stir in the garam masala, tomato paste, and kosher salt. Cook and stir the mixture for 2 minutes to develop the flavors.

Step 3: Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker. Add the tomato paste mixture, lime zest, lime juice, coconut milk, and chicken stock to the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Cover and cook on the low heat setting for 4 1/2 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through. You can cook it up to 7 hours if needed, but be aware the chicken may become very soft and start to shred.

Step 5: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired. Serve the butter chicken hot with basmati or jasmine rice and naan bread.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.

Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer leaner meat, though thighs stay juicier in slow cooking.

Adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped green chili when cooking the onion and garlic.

If coconut milk separates, whisk it until smooth before adding to the slow cooker for even consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It is best to use fully thawed chicken for even cooking and to prevent the slow cooker from staying too cold, which can be unsafe. If using frozen chicken, allow extra cooking time and ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free rice and naan if needed or omit the naan.