chicken makhani slow cooker

Chicken Mākhni Slow Cooker Recipe: Creamy, Tender, and Irresistibly Flavored

If you're on the hunt for convenience, flavor, and restaurant-quality Chicken Mākhni without hours in the kitchen, look no further than the Chicken Mākhni slow cooker recipe. This luxurious Indian dish—two words that define rich, velvety tomatoes, aromatic spices, and flawlessly tender chicken—gets effortlessly simplified with the help of a slow cooker. Whether you're a busy professional, a student, or a home cook loving minimalist cooking, this guide will masterfully walk you through crafting Chicken Mākhni the smart, easy, and delicious way using a slow cooker.

Understanding the Context

What is Chicken Mākhni?

“Mākhni” (pronounced mah-kh-NEE) translates to creamy in Punjabi and Hinglizy—a hallmark of one of India’s most beloved comfort foods. Chicken Mākhni is a slow-cooked cream sauce made with plump chicken pieces smothered in a velvety tomato gravy laced with warm spices. It’s the Italian polenta creamed or creamy tomato chicken, but with that uniquely Indian depth—tender chicken, luxurious texture, and bright, layered flavors.

Why Use a Slow Cooker for Chicken Mākhni?

Key Insights

Traditional Maya Mākhni demands simmering on a stovetop for hours. That’s where the chicken Mākhni slow cooker method shines:

No constant monitoring: Roam your day while your chicken cooks smoothly.
Even heat distribution: Achieves tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat without overcooking.
Deep flavor infusion: Gentle cooking enhances spice and tomato richness.
Perfect for forgetful beginner cooks: Forget about stirring or adjusting heat.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Mākhni Slow Cooker

1.5 lbs (675g) boneless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable or ghee oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch ginger, grated
2–3 green chilies (adjust to spice level)
1 medium tomato, pureed or chopped (fresh or canned great!)
1 cup yogurt or crumbled paneer (for creaminess)
2 cups crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)
1 cup light cream or coconut milk (optional, for luxe texture)
1–2 tsp garam masala
1 small cardamom pod, crushed
Turmeric, salt, red chili powder to taste
Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)

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Final Thoughts

Step-by-Step Slow Cooker Chicken Mākhni Recipe

Sear for Depth
Pat dry chicken pieces and heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet. Sauté onions till translucent, then add garlic, ginger, and green chilies; cook until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes to deepen flavors.
Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
Stir in garam masala, cardamom, salt, and red chili powder. Let marinate 10–15 minutes for maximum taste penetration.
Combine & Cook Low & Slow
Transfer battered or raw chicken to the slow cooker. Pour in tomato mixture, yogurt, and cream. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Stir once halfway if needed to prevent sticking.
Finish with Creaminess
Just before serving, stir in ¼ cup yogurt/paneer to brighten and velvety-ize the gravy. Adjust salt, chili, or cream for balance.

Serve Starring Garnish
Feed hot into bowls, top with fresh coriander and a dollop of cream or cashew cream for a restaurant finish.

Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Mākhni

Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier meat; breasts cook faster—trim excess fat if using leaner cuts.
Don’t skip the marination; it builds layers of flavor.
For a faster version, use store-bought purees or concentrate tomato flavor.
If using yogurt, add it after cooking to prevent curdling—simmer gently if preferred.
Experiment with kasuri methi or saffron to elevate the fragrance.