Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Growing up, weekends were always a culinary adventure in my house, but one dish that consistently stole the spotlight was Instant Pot Butter Chicken. The aroma of spices and creamy sauce wafting through the air would draw everyone to the kitchen, eager to indulge in a comforting plate of this Indian classic. I remember the first time I tried making it myself; I stood in awe as the Instant Pot worked its magic, transforming simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful meal in less time than it would take to order takeout. Each bite was a revelation, with the tender chunks of chicken enveloped in a velvety sauce that danced on my taste buds.

The beauty of Instant Pot Butter Chicken lies not just in its taste but also in its simplicity. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. As I experimented with the recipe, I discovered how versatile it is; you can adjust the spice levels to your liking, making it perfect for both the spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can whip it up on a busy weeknight or impress guests at a dinner party.

One of my favorite memories is serving Instant Pot Butter Chicken during a chilly winter evening. I paired it with warm naan bread and fragrant basmati rice, and the combination was nothing short of heavenly. Each spoonful not only filled the stomach but also warmed the heart. It’s these experiences that remind me of the love and joy that home-cooked meals can bring to our lives. So, let’s dive into the world of flavors and make some magic with this recipe!

Ingredients to Make Instant Pot Butter Chicken

To create a delicious Instant Pot Butter Chicken, we need a harmonious blend of ingredients that work together to build flavor and texture. The star of the dish is the tender chicken, enhanced by aromatic spices and a creamy sauce. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that authentic taste.

• 2 lbs (1 kg) skinless and boneless chicken thighs: The chicken thighs are juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing the rich sauce.
• 2 1/2 tablespoons chili powder: Adds warmth and depth to the dish; adjust according to your spice preference.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the sauce.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings a luxurious creaminess to the dish and enhances the overall flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or pureed: Offers a fragrant note that complements the spices beautifully.
• 1 piece ginger, finely minced or pureed (1 inch/2.5 cm): Adds a warm, spicy flavor that is essential in Indian cuisine.
• 1/2 cup tomato paste: Forms the base of the sauce, adding richness and a slight sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup: A surprising addition that contributes sweetness and balances the spices.
• 1 teaspoon garam masala: A key spice blend that gives Butter Chicken its distinctive flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• 2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 3/4 cup water: Helps create the sauce and ensure the chicken is cooked properly.
• 1/2 – 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream: The secret to that rich, creamy texture that makes this dish so indulgent.
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and a fresh flavor to finish off the dish.

Cooking Method for Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Making Instant Pot Butter Chicken is an effortless process that yields mouthwatering results. Let’s walk through the steps together, ensuring you achieve the best flavor and texture for your dish. Follow along carefully, and soon you’ll have a meal that impresses!

1. Trim off the excess fat from the chicken thighs using a pair of kitchen scissors and cut them into bite-sized chunks. Marinate the chicken with half a tablespoon of chili powder and lemon juice. This step helps to infuse the chicken with flavor, so let it sit while you prepare the next steps.
2. Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to Saute Mode. When the pot is fully heated, add the butter and melt it. You’ll notice the lovely aroma filling your kitchen as the butter starts to bubble.
3. Add the finely minced or pureed garlic and ginger to the melted butter. Stir them a few times, allowing their flavors to release and meld together in the pot.
4. Next, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot. Sauté the chicken until the surface turns white, sealing in all those delicious juices.
5. Now, it’s time to add the remaining chili powder, tomato paste, ketchup, garam masala, salt, sugar, and water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the chicken is coated evenly with the sauce.
6. Cover the pot, select Manual, and set it to High Pressure for 10 minutes. The pressure cooking will tenderize the chicken and develop the flavors even further, so don’t skip this step!
7. When the cooking time is up, the Instant Pot will beep. Turn to Quick Release to release the pressure carefully. Once the valve drops, you can safely remove the cover.
8. Add the heavy whipping cream and chopped cilantro to the pot. Stir everything together to create a luxurious, creamy sauce that clings to the chicken pieces.
9. For an extra touch, drizzle additional heavy cream on top of your Butter Chicken before serving. This step not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds richness to every bite.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are countless ways to make Instant Pot Butter Chicken your own! Here are some tips to consider when preparing this delicious dish:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to enjoy again.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze Instant Pot Butter Chicken! Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with warm naan or basmati rice. Consider serving it alongside a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Spice it Up: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Add more chili powder or fresh chilies if you crave additional heat.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or paneer, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Serving This Instant Pot Butter Chicken

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Butter Chicken, there are so many delightful ways to enjoy it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Serve with Rice: A steaming bowl of basmati rice is the perfect base for your Butter Chicken. The grains soak up the delicious sauce, making each bite a treat.
• Naan Bread: Warm naan bread is a fantastic accompaniment. Use it to scoop up the creamy sauce, adding a delightful texture to your meal.
• Pair with Sides: Consider offering a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Occasions: Instant Pot Butter Chicken is versatile and perfect for various occasions, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish reheats wonderfully, so you can enjoy it again the next day!

FAQ

Conclusion

Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a standout recipe that everyone will love. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You won’t just be satisfied by the taste; you’ll also enjoy the memories made while cooking and sharing it with your loved ones.

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot Butter Chicken delivers rich, creamy flavors that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish features tender chicken enveloped in a savory sauce. Why not treat yourself to this easy and delicious recipe tonight?

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs skinless and boneless chicken thighs
• 2 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or pureed
• 1 piece ginger, finely minced or pureed (1 inch/2.5 cm)
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 – 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Instant Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Trim off the excess fat from the chicken thighs using a pair of kitchen scissors and cut them into chunks. Marinate the chicken with half a tablespoon of chili powder and lemon juice. Set aside.
2. Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to Saute Mode. When the pot is fully heated, add the butter and melt it.
3. Add the finely minced or pureed garlic and ginger to the melted butter. Stir them a few times.
4. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot and sauté until the surface turns white.
5. Add the remaining chili powder, tomato paste, ketchup, garam masala, salt, sugar, and water. Stir well to combine.
6. Cover the pot, select Manual, and set it to High Pressure for 10 minutes.
7. When the cooking time is up, turn to Quick Release and remove the cover.
8. Add the heavy whipping cream and chopped cilantro to the pot. Stir together to create a luxurious sauce.
9. Drizzle additional heavy cream on top of your Butter Chicken before serving for added richness.

Notes

• Tip 1: I used a 6-quart Instant Pot.
• Tip 2: You can skip Garam Masala, but this spice mix gives Butter Chicken its iconic flavor.
• Tip 3: You may use chicken breasts if preferred.
• Tip 4: If using frozen chicken, increase pressure cooking time by 50%.
• Tip 5: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, simmer on low heat until the chicken is tender.

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Meet Lucy Bennett

I’m passionate about food that brings people together. I love creating recipes that are vibrant, flavorful, and easy to share. I’ve cooked and tested this dish in my own kitchen to make sure it works perfectly for you. Enjoy!