Name: Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup full-fat coconut milk; 1 cup tomato puree; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp turmeric; 2 tsp garam masala; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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The aroma of spices wafts through the air, making your mouth water with anticipation. Picture tender chicken simmering in a rich sauce, the kind that wraps around you like a warm hug on a chilly evening. savory chicken hand pies This Instant Pot Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you straight to the streets of India with every bite.

Jump to:

Essential Ingredients
Let’s Make it together
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for Instant Pot Butter Chicken?
What can I serve with Instant Pot Butter Chicken?
How can I make Instant Pot Butter Chicken spicier?
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I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chaotic weeknight, and I was juggling work deadlines and family demands. With my trusty Instant Pot by my side, I whipped up this creamy delight in no time. The whole family gathered around, and the smiles on their faces were worth more than any Michelin star.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Butter Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
The flavors are out of this world, combining warm spices with creamy goodness
Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning and appetizing on any dinner table
Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish never fails to impress

My friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was; even my picky eater had seconds! delicious vegan curry.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, but you can use breasts if you prefer less fat.
Fresh Ginger: A must-have for that zingy flavor; always use fresh instead of dried for the best results.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will give your dish that aromatic depth it desperately needs. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs recipe.
Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for creaminess; it makes everything richer and more indulgent.
Tomato Puree: This adds color and balances out the spices beautifully; choose high-quality brands for best flavor.
Spices (Cumin, Turmeric, Garam Masala): These spices create that signature flavor profile; don’t skip any!
Butter: The secret ingredient that makes everything better; use unsalted for better control over seasoning.
Fresh Cilantro: For garnishing; it adds a fresh pop of color and flavor right before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and ginger finely so they infuse well into the sauce.

Sauté Aromatics: Turn your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add butter until melted, then add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté until fragrant and slightly golden.

Add Chicken: Toss in your chopped chicken thighs. Cook them until they are lightly browned all over. This step boosts texture and flavor significantly.

Create the Sauce: Stir in tomato puree along with coconut milk and spices: cumin, turmeric, garam masala. Mix well until everything is combined beautifully.

Cook Under Pressure: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Let it naturally release for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.

Finish with Freshness: Once cooked, stir in chopped cilantro before serving. The bright green color will elevate both presentation and taste!

And there you have it! A delightful bowl of Instant Pot Butter Chicken awaits you—serve over fluffy rice or with warm naan bread to soak up all that creamy goodness! Enjoy every mouthful as if you were feasting at an upscale Indian restaurant without leaving your home! creamy pasta with sun-dried tomatoes.

You Must Know

Mastering Instant Pot Butter Chicken not only saves time but also maximizes flavor
The pressure cooking method keeps the chicken tender while soaking in aromatic spices, creating a dish that’s bursting with rich, creamy goodness
It’s a weeknight dinner superhero!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and spices in the Instant Pot for maximum flavor. Add chicken next, then pour in tomatoes and cream to let it all meld together beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different spices like garam masala or cumin for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Searing the chicken first creates a beautiful crust, locking in moisture and flavor
Always taste and adjust seasonings to your liking before serving
Using fresh ginger instead of powdered adds a zingy freshness that elevates the dish significantly

Sharing my first attempt at Instant Pot Butter Chicken was quite the adventure; I ended up feeding my neighbors too! They couldn’t get enough of it, which made me feel like a culinary rockstar. hearty chicken and sweet potato soup.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for Instant Pot Butter Chicken?

For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles recipe.

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase cooking time by about 5 minutes.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Butter Chicken?

Serve it over basmati rice or with warm naan for a complete meal experience.

How can I make Instant Pot Butter Chicken spicier?

Add more chili powder or fresh chilies during cooking for extra heat and depth of flavor.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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