Slow Cooker Butter Tomato Chicken
Description
This Slow Cooker Butter Tomato Chicken is rich, creamy, and packed with comforting flavor. Tender chicken simmers slowly in a velvety tomato-based sauce infused with butter, garlic, and spices, creating a dish that’s incredibly juicy and full of depth. It’s an easy, dump-and-go recipe that delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 4 tbsp butter (cut into cubes)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place chicken evenly in the slow cooker.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Add garlic and onion over the chicken.
- Pour tomato sauce over everything, making sure the chicken is covered.
- Scatter butter cubes evenly on top.
- Cover and cook:
- Low: 6–7 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
- Optional: Stir in heavy cream during the last 20–30 minutes for a richer sauce.
- Gently stir before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
- Chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful.
- Butter adds richness and helps create a silky sauce.
- Sauce thickens naturally as it cooks.
Tips
- Sear chicken before adding for deeper flavor.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or with naan bread.
- Use fresh herbs at the end for a bright finish.
Servings
Serves: 4–6 people
Nutritional Info (Approx per serving)
- Calories: 320–420
- Protein: 25–30g
- Fat: 18–25g
- Carbohydrates: 8–12g
- Sodium: 500–700mg
Benefits
- High in protein for muscle support
- Comforting and filling meal
- Simple slow cooker prep
- Rich in antioxidants from tomatoes
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thawing first gives better texture and even cooking.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Skip butter and cream or use plant-based alternatives.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make it thicker?
Add a cornstarch slurry or simmer uncovered at the end.
Q: What sides go best?
Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
