There’s a certain joy in creating a rich and flavorful meal in mere minutes, especially after a long day. That’s exactly how I felt when I discovered the magic of Instant Pot Butter Chicken. The moment the garlic and ginger hit the sizzling butter, the warm, inviting aroma filled my kitchen, teasing my senses and sparking my anticipation. In just under 30 minutes, tender chicken thighs become enveloped in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that’s perfect for those weeknight dinners or meal prep days when time is of the essence.
This dish isn’t just about speed; it’s about bringing together those deep, aromatic flavors that make every bite a delight. Paired with fluffy rice or warm naan, this butter chicken is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a comforting reminder of a cozy night in. So gather your ingredients and let’s create a meal that combines ease, flavor, and that feeling of home.
Why is Instant Pot Butter Chicken a must-try?
Quick and Convenient: Prepare a delicious meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Indulgence: The luscious tomato cream sauce envelops tender chicken, delivering a taste sensation that feels indulgent yet easy.
Bold Flavors: Every bite is infused with aromatic spices, taking your taste buds on a journey to India without leaving home.
Versatile Cooking Options: Easily customize for dietary preferences, with options for vegetarian or dairy-free versions.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish impresses everyone at the table.
Explore more about meal prepping with dishes that are perfect for busy lifestyles and still elevate your dining experience!
Instant Pot Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce; substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Garlic – Provides a robust flavor; use fresh for best results, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Fresh Ginger Root – Contributes a zesty aroma; ground ginger is a substitute but alters the texture.
- Garam Masala – Essential for authentic Indian flavor; no substitute necessary, though curry powder may suffice.
- Ground Cumin – Enhances depth and warmth in the dish; no significant substitution recommended.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds subtle smokiness; sweet paprika can replace it for a milder flavor.
- Ground Turmeric – Provides color and earthy flavor; omit if unavailable, as no direct substitute exists.
- Chili Powder (optional) – For heat; adjust according to taste; substitute with cayenne if preferred.
- Salt – Balances flavors; adjust according to personal taste.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – The main protein source, providing tender texture; substitute with chicken breasts but reduce pressure cooking time to 4-5 minutes to prevent dryness.
For the Base
- Tomato Sauce or Passata – Forms the base of the sauce, giving it richness; canned diced tomatoes may be an alternative.
- Heavy Whipping Cream (or coconut milk, half-and-half) – Adds creaminess; use low-fat cream for a lighter version.
For the Garnish
- Fresh Parsley, Mint, or Cilantro – Adds a burst of fresh flavor; use any herb you prefer to brighten up the dish.
Get ready to indulge in the vibrant, creamy delight of Instant Pot Butter Chicken!
How to Make Instant Pot Butter Chicken
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Melt Butter: Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode and adding unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, then toss in minced garlic and fresh ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add Spices: Next, stir in garam masala, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, and optional chili powder. Mix well, allowing the spices to bloom for about 1 minute, creating a tantalizing aroma.
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Coat Chicken: Add the diced boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the pot. Stir thoroughly to coat the chicken pieces in the fragrant spice mixture, ensuring every bite will be flavorful.
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Incorporate Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce or passata, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom. Close the lid tightly and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes.
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Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is done, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure. Immediately stir in the heavy whipping cream until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
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Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish your butter chicken with fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro. Serve this delightful dish hot over fluffy rice or with warm naan for a comforting meal.
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Instant Pot Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor its rich flavors without the last-minute rush! You can chop the chicken and prepare the spice blend (garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the chicken and spices in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can make the creamy tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just combine the ingredients in the Instant Pot, cook as instructed, and you’ll still have that delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Butter Chicken
- Consistent Cuts: Ensure chicken pieces are uniform for even cooking; larger chunks may remain undercooked.
- Thickness Control: Sauté the finished dish for a few extra minutes if you prefer a thicker sauce; it can elevate the texture.
- Taste Test: Always adjust salt and spices before serving, as canned tomato products may vary in saltiness.
- Herb Freshness: Garnish with fresh herbs right before serving for a burst of flavor; you can mix and match according to your preference.
- Quick Release Caution: Be cautious when releasing the pressure; use a kitchen towel to shield your hand from potential steam burns.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This Instant Pot Butter Chicken is great for meal prep—portion out for lunches throughout the week!
Instant Pot Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to customize your butter chicken experience with these exciting twists that tantalize your taste buds!
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Vegetarian Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or canned chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian dish that’s just as satisfying.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream to create a creamy, dairy-free sauce without losing that luscious texture.
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Extra Spice: Boost the heat by adding diced jalapeños or increasing the chili powder for those who enjoy a fiery kick.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like basil or dill instead of the traditional cilantro for a unique flavor profile.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a spoonful of almond or cashew butter to add richness and depth, creating a delightful nutty taste.
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Savory Depth: Stir in a tablespoon of miso paste for an umami boost that introduces a whole new level of flavor to the sauce.
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Citrus Zing: A splash of lemon or lime juice can brighten up the dish, balancing the creaminess with a refreshing acidity.
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Texture Twist: Top with toasted almonds or cashews right before serving for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Butter Chicken?
To complement the rich, creamy allure of butter chicken, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of your meal.
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Fluffy Basmati Rice: The perfect canvas for soaking up the luscious sauce, fluffy rice balances the bold spices while providing comfort in every bite.
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Garlic Naan: This warm, pillowy bread is ideal for scooping up butter chicken, adding a delightful chewiness that brings a fun, interactive element to your meal.
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Crispy Papadums: Their crunchy texture adds a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce, making each mouthful a satisfying blend of flavors and textures.
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Roasted Veggies: Lightly seasoned veggies like cauliflower and bell peppers introduce a fresh crunch, while their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the spice of the chicken.
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Cucumber Raita: This cool, creamy yogurt sauce provides a refreshing contrast, perfectly taming the heat while adding a pleasant tang in each bite.
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Fresh Salad: A crisp salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette introduces brightness and a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the dish.
Enjoy these pairings for a well-rounded, delightful dining experience that elevates your Instant Pot Butter Chicken to a memorable meal!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Butter Chicken
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
- Freezer: Butter chicken freezes well for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer bags. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy texture. You can add a splash of water or cream if it thickens too much.
- Portioning: Consider portioning out servings before storing, making it easier to grab quick meals throughout the week. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your Instant Pot Butter Chicken anytime!
Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe as they remain juicy and tender after cooking. If you prefer chicken breasts, that’s fine too, but they will require a shorter cooking time of about 4-5 minutes to prevent drying out. Whichever you choose, be sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking!
How long can I store the Butter Chicken in the fridge?
You can store your Instant Pot Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through.
Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Yes, absolutely! Butter Chicken freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely, then transfer it to airtight freezer bags or containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat carefully so you don’t lose that creamy texture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If you find your Butter Chicken sauce is too thin for your liking, no worries! Simply set the Instant Pot back to sauté mode after it’s done cooking. Let it simmer for a few extra minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens to your desired consistency. You can add a little more cream or a splash of water if it gets too thick.
Are there dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. For those avoiding gluten, be sure to check labels on ingredients like tomato sauce and spices. Always double-check for any allergens, especially with spice blends like garam masala, as they may contain various components that could trigger allergies.
How can I enhance flavors or customize the dish?
Feel free to experiment with the spice levels! If you love heat, try adding more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. You can also switch up the herbs used for garnish; fresh cilantro, mint, or parsley all add their unique twist! Plus, consider pairing with basmati rice or warm naan to elevate your meal experience further. Enjoy the delicious journey!
Savory Instant Pot Butter Chicken Ready in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt Butter: Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode and adding unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, then toss in minced garlic and fresh ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Spices: Stir in garam masala, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, and optional chili powder. Mix well, allowing the spices to bloom for about 1 minute.
- Coat Chicken: Add the diced boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the pot. Stir thoroughly to coat the chicken pieces in the fragrant spice mixture.
- Incorporate Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce or passata, scraping any bits stuck to the bottom. Close the lid tightly and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is done, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure. Stir in the heavy whipping cream until the sauce is creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish your butter chicken with fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro. Serve hot over rice or with naan.