Name: Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 5 cloves garlic (about 5 teaspoons, minced or crushed); 2 inch fresh ginger root (grated (about 2 tablespoons)); 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional); 1 teaspoon salt (add more if needed); 2 pounds chicken thighs (skinless, boneless, diced into bite-size pieces); 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce (or passata); 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or coconut milk, or half and half); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or mint or cilantro, for garnish)

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I remember the first time I made Instant Pot Butter Chicken; it was one of those cozy evenings when the winds howled outside, and I craved something warm and comforting. As I glanced through my pantry, I spotted the ingredients I needed, and my heart lit up at the thought of making this classic dish. The aroma of spices starting to bloom in the pan, mingling with the rich scent of buttery chicken, took me back to the vibrant streets of India where this dish originates. It’s a recipe that not only fills your stomach but also warms your soul, bringing friends and family together around the table. And the best part? It’s made in a fraction of the time with my trusty Instant Pot, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
16 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
6 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
380 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
26 g

Tools Used:
Instant Pot

Why This Instant Pot Butter Chicken Works

Quick Cooking Time

One of the most appealing aspects of Instant Pot Butter Chicken is how swiftly it comes together. In just minutes, you can have a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. The pressure cooker locks in flavors while tenderizing the chicken beautifully, so you won’t be left waiting long for that enticing first bite.

Flavor Explosion

The combination of spices in this recipe is nothing short of magical. From the warmth of garam masala to the depth of cumin, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a savory symphony. When you taste the final dish, it’s like a hug in a bowl, with complex flavors that dance on your palate.

Rich and Creamy

The addition of heavy cream ensures that the sauce is luxuriously rich, creating a delightful contrast with the spices. If you’re looking for a creamy, indulgent dish, this is it! Plus, you can easily swap in coconut milk for a lighter or non-dairy version.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Instant Pot Butter Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors only improve as it sits, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality food at home.

Kid-Friendly

This dish is a fantastic option for families. The spices can be adjusted to suit your children’s taste buds, making it easy to create a milder version. Plus, the butter chicken pairs perfectly with rice or naan, allowing kids to enjoy it in a style they love.

Customizable

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily add vegetables for a nutritional boost or even use different proteins if you prefer. It’s a dish that encourages creativity, letting you put your own spin on it while still keeping the heart of the recipe intact.

Ingredients Required for Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish a success. The vibrant spices and tender chicken work together to create a rich and flavorful meal that warms the soul. The key players in this recipe—chicken thighs, butter, and a blend of spices—combine harmoniously to result in a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base of the sauce, adding richness and flavor.
5 cloves garlic: Minced or crushed, it provides aromatic depth.
2 inch fresh ginger root: Grated, adding warmth and a hint of spice.
2 teaspoons garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that defines the dish.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: For earthy undertones.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness.
1 teaspoon ground turmeric: For its vibrant color and health benefits.
½ teaspoon chili powder: Optional, for those who enjoy heat.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing flavors.
2 pounds chicken thighs: Skinless and boneless for tenderness.
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce: The base of the gravy.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: For creaminess, or you can opt for coconut milk.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For garnish, adding freshness.

Preparation Steps for Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Making Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can master. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to create this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor every bite!

Start by pressing the SAUTE button on the Instant Pot. Add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt. You’ll want to watch it carefully to ensure it doesn’t burn.
Once melted, toss in the garlic and ginger. Sauté for about a minute or until they become fragrant. This step is crucial, as it lays a flavorful foundation.
Next, add in all the spices: garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Stir everything together and let it cook for another minute. You’ll notice the spices bloom and create a wonderful aroma.
If the mixture is sticking to the bottom of the pot, deglaze by adding a splash of water and scraping the bits off with a wooden spoon. This is important to prevent the BURN alert later.
Pour in the tomato sauce along with a quarter cup of water. This will create a lovely sauce to cook the chicken in. Switch off the sauté mode.
Add the chicken thighs to the pot, making sure to coat them well with the sauce. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring it’s sealed tightly. Set the vent to SEALING. Then, select the PRESSURE COOK or MANUAL setting and set the time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
The Instant Pot will take around 10 minutes to come to pressure and start cooking. When the cooking time ends, carefully perform a quick release of the steam.
After the steam has fully released, remove the lid. Press the SAUTE button again, and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to reduce slightly, stirring occasionally.
Finally, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices to your liking. Serve this beautiful dish warm over rice and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Quality: Always use fresh spices for the best flavor. Stale spices can dull the dish’s vibrancy.
Pressure Cooking Tips: If you’re worried about the BURN message, ensure you have enough liquid in the pot, and avoid overcooking.
Personalize Heat Levels: If you’re serving children, you can reduce or skip the chili powder to maintain a milder flavor.
Garnishing Choices: Experiment with different herbs like mint or cilantro for a fresh twist on the garnish.

Expert Tips about Instant Pot Butter Chicken

To ensure your Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a resounding success, here are some expert tips that will help elevate your dish.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The sauce will thicken, so add a splash of water when reheating.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Pairing: Serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal. The sauce is perfect for soaking into these sides.
Texture Variation: For a creamier sauce, consider stirring in an extra tablespoon of butter after cooking.
Ingredient Adjustments: Feel free to add vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

How to Enjoy Instant Pot Butter Chicken

When it comes to enjoying Instant Pot Butter Chicken, the possibilities are delightful and endless. Here are some wonderful ideas:

Serving Style: Serve it hot over a bed of fluffy white basmati rice or with warm naan to soak up the rich sauce.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or even festive occasions like Ramadan.
Side Dishes: Pair with a refreshing cucumber raita or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheated easily in the microwave or stovetop.
Garnishing: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or parsley just before serving for an aromatic finish.

FAQ

The primary difference between Instant Pot Butter Chicken and traditional butter chicken lies in the cooking method. While traditional recipes require slow cooking and careful attention, the Instant Pot allows for a quick preparation, locking in flavors without sacrificing the dish’s essence. The pressure cooking method tenderizes the chicken and melds flavors rapidly, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. You still get that rich taste and creamy sauce but in a fraction of the time!

Absolutely! Instant Pot Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier. If you’re planning to freeze it, consider using a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and reheat!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve Instant Pot Butter Chicken over fluffy basmati rice or alongside warm naan for a traditional experience. Adding a side of cucumber raita can help cool the palate if you find the dish a little spicy. A fresh salad or steamed vegetables also make excellent accompaniments, adding a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.

Yes! Instant Pot Butter Chicken can be adjusted to suit your children’s taste buds. The level of spice can be modified by reducing or omitting the chili powder. It’s a rich and creamy dish that kids often enjoy. Plus, serving it with rice or naan makes it fun and interactive for them to eat. They’ll love getting their hands on the warm naan to scoop up the chicken!

Conclusion

Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the warmth of Indian cuisine right into your home. It’s rich, creamy, and surprisingly easy to make, making it a must-try for any food lover. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish will impress everyone.

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With tender chicken cooked in a fragrant, spiced sauce, every bite is a flavor explosion. Make it tonight and enjoy a taste of India from your kitchen!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 6

Total Time 16

Course Dinner

Cuisine Indian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

Instant Pot

Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic about 5 teaspoons, minced or crushed
2 inch fresh ginger root grated (about 2 tablespoons)
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon chili powder optional
1 teaspoon salt add more if needed
2 pounds chicken thighs skinless, boneless, diced into bite-size pieces
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce or passata
1 cup heavy whipping cream or coconut milk, or half and half
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or mint or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

On the Instant Pot press on SAUTE and melt the butter. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Add all of the spices, and the salt, stir, and cook for a minute. You might want to deglaze the pot at this point if the mixture is stuck to the bottom of the pot, just add a splash of water and scrape off any stuck bits with a wooden spoon.
Then add the tomato sauce (passata) and a ¼ cup of water. Switch off the sauté setting.
Add the chicken thighs, give everything a mix.
Secure the lid and set the vent to SEALING. Select the PRESSURE COOK/MANUAL setting and set the cooking time for 6 minutes at high pressure. The Instant Pot will take around 10 minutes to come to pressure and start cooking.
When the cooking program ends, quickly release the steam. Carefully remove the lid, and press on SAUTE.
Stir in the cream, and allow the sauce to reduce a little (season with more salt if necessary). Taste the sauce and see if you need to add a little bit more salt.
Serve warm over rice with chopped parsley or cilantro.

Notes

Do not add water: The chicken will produce enough liquid for the Instant Pot to come to pressure.
Chicken varieties: Chicken breasts can also be used, but thighs are more flavorful. If using breasts, pressure cook for 5 minutes.
Substitutions: The passata can be substituted with tomato sauce or blended plain tomatoes.
Non-dairy options: You can use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Spice levels: This dish is medium spicy; adjust the chili powder for children.
Quick dinner: Skipping the sautéing step is possible for a speedier meal.
Double the recipe: If doubling, do not adjust the cooking time.