Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of creating a rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful curry in a fraction of the usual time, this Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe is your answer. Imagine tender chicken thighs bathed in a luscious sauce that perfectly balances spices, tangy tomatoes, and velvety cream—all whipped up effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This dish brings the authentic taste of Indian comfort food right to your kitchen, and I promise it will become a weeknight favorite faster than you can say “naan.”

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe lies not just in the technique but also in choosing simple, soulful ingredients that blend harmoniously to create a dish with layers of complexity and warmth. Each spice packs a fragrant punch, while the chicken and creamy elements provide the perfect texture and color that make this meal so inviting.

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, chicken thighs stay moist and absorb spices beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon garam masala: A signature spice blend that infuses warmth and depth.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a nutty, earthy flavor essential to Indian cuisine.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: For a fresh, citrusy undertone that brightens the dish.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric: Gives the curry a gorgeous golden color and subtle warmth.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a gentle heat to balance the creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Needed for sautéing and enriching the base flavors.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and body to the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: For that irresistible savory punch.
• 1 inch ginger, grated: Brightens the dish with a fresh zing and subtle spice.
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: The tangy backbone of the sauce, balancing richness with acidity.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture and mellow flavor.
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt: Adds tenderness to the chicken and slight tanginess.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Brings richness and a velvety finish.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped: For a fragrant and colorful garnish.
• Cooked basmati rice or naan: Perfect for soaking up every bit of the savory sauce.

How to Make Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken with Spices

Start by tossing the chicken thighs in a bowl with garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. This step is crucial because it ensures every piece is infused with those warm, complex spices which make butter chicken so irresistible.

Step 2: Sauté Onions in the Instant Pot

Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the finely chopped onions and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn soft and translucent, creating a sweet and silky base for your sauce.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger

Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. These aromatics elevate your dish with their heady fragrance and a touch of brightness that cuts through the richness perfectly.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken

Add your spiced chicken thighs to the pot. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until browned on the outside. This step locks in flavor and texture, giving the chicken a lovely caramelized exterior before pressure cooking.

Step 5: Combine with Crushed Tomatoes

Pour the crushed tomatoes into the pot and mix everything well. The tomatoes provide the perfect balance of freshness and acidity that transforms the dish from simple chicken to a luscious curry.

Step 6: Pressure Cook the Chicken

Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the steam release handle is set to “Sealing.” Set the pot to “Pressure Cook” on high for 10 minutes. This efficient cooking method guarantees tender, soak-in-the-spices chicken in no time.

Step 7: Release Pressure and Add Creamy Ingredients

After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes for the best texture. Then carefully switch to “Venting” to release any leftover steam. Open the lid, and stir in the heavy cream and plain yogurt until rich and smooth.

Step 8: Finish with Butter and Final Seasoning

Drop in the butter and stir until it melts completely into the sauce, creating that signature velvety finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary to suit your palate.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Your Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe is ready to be served, bursting with color, flavor, and creamy goodness!

How to Serve Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top just before serving. This adds a vibrant freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce and makes the dish look as fantastic as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up the sauce like a dream. Alternatively, warm, soft naan bread on the side is perfect for scooping and savoring every last bit.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try serving your butter chicken in a small, shallow bowl surrounded by a ring of naan slices, with lemon wedges on the side to add a hint of citrus brightness. You can also place a dollop of cooling raita or a sprinkle of toasted nuts on top for extra texture and flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Butter chicken actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy quick, delicious meals later on.

Freezing

This Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave room for expansion and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat your butter chicken in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy and prevent sticking. Adding a splash of cream or water helps loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

You absolutely can, though chicken thighs stay juicier and more tender when cooked under pressure. If using breast meat, keep an eye on cooking time to avoid dryness.

Is this recipe spicy?

The chili powder gives a mild warmth, but you can adjust the amount or add fresh green chilies if you want more heat. It’s a flexible recipe for all spice preferences.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream and yogurt for coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative to keep it creamy while making it suitable for dairy-free diets.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?

Browning adds extra flavor and texture, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it. Just know that the sauce might not have the same depth.

What’s the best rice to serve with butter chicken?

Basmati rice is the classic choice due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, which complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving that iconic Indian takeout flavor without the hassle, this Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe is your new best friend. It’s warm, comforting, and insanely easy to put together, making it perfect for busy days or when you want to impress without stress. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll keep coming back for more. So why wait? Gather those simple ingredients and let your Instant Pot do the rest—you’re in for a truly delicious treat!

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