Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Looking for a dish that’s full of flavor, delightfully creamy, and guaranteed to please the whole family? Look no further! Instant Pot Butter Chicken is here to save the day (and your dinner plans)! This dish is luscious, aromatic, and effortlessly cooked in your trusty Instant Pot, ensuring tender chicken bathed in a savory sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe has become a favorite for good reason.

Did you know that Butter Chicken traces its origins to a humble restaurant in Delhi, India, back in the 1950s? It was created out of a need to reduce waste by using leftover chicken. Today, it’s adored worldwide, and here’s how resting wonderfully next to my Spicy Chickpea Curry on the blog—both showcase vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients. So let’s dive into why this Instant Pot Butter Chicken deserves a place on your dinner table!

What is Instant Pot Butter Chicken?

You might wonder where the enchanting name “Butter Chicken” comes from. Is it because you slather it with butter? Or maybe because it leaves you with a buttery smile? It’s a delicious mystery fit for a culinary detective! The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and I can assure you that a hearty bowl of Instant Pot Butter Chicken is probably the secret to finding it.

As it simmers in the pot, the enticing aroma will entice everyone from the living room, beckoning them to come and discover this creamy delight. But enough with the teasing—let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is not just another chicken dish; it’s a comforting embrace of flavors that transports you straight to culinary heaven. Picture this: tender chicken coated in a luscious, creamy, spiced sauce that dances on your palate. Plus, let’s talk about the wallet-saving benefits of cooking at home! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create an impressive meal that’s sure to impress without breaking the bank.

Now, think of how good a plate of traditional chicken curry is, but then imagine that same dish revamped into a creamy, rich delight—yes, that’s the magic of Instant Pot Butter Chicken! Whether you’re serving it over fragrant basmati rice or with warm naan bread, each bite is a testament to what home cooking is all about. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get inspired to whip up something extraordinary!

How to Make Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Quick Overview

Creating Instant Pot Butter Chicken is one of those rewarding experiences where simplicity meets incredible flavor. This dish is not only easy to prep, but it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll be treated to tender chicken morsels simmering joyfully in a well-seasoned sauce, ensuring that the first bite makes you feel like you’re indulging in gourmet dining.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are measured and ready to go. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Onions: Turn your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Add butter and let it melt. Once melted, toss in the chopped onions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they turn soft and translucent.
2. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, allowing their fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen. Sauté for another minute.
3. Combine Spices: Sprinkle in garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. Stir well to combine, letting the spices bloom for about 30 seconds.
4. Add Chicken and Tomatoes: Toss in the chicken pieces and diced tomatoes. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the spice mixture.
5. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 8 minutes. Once done, allow it to release naturally for 10 minutes, before doing a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
6. Finish with Cream: Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Give it a gentle mix until well combined. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish and Serve: Ladle your butter chicken into bowls and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a pop of color. Pair it with your favorite rice or bread and enjoy!

Top Tips for Perfecting Instant Pot Butter Chicken

• Substitutions: If you’re looking to switch things up, try using thighs instead of chicken breasts for added juiciness! You can also use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter option or to make it dairy-free.
• Timing: Make sure not to overcook the chicken. The Instant Pot is a powerful tool, and it can dry out the meat if left too long. Stick to the suggested pressure cooking time for optimal tenderness.
• Avoiding Mistakes: Make sure nothing is stuck to the bottom of the pot while sautéing. If you notice some browning, deglaze with a little water before adding the chicken and tomatoes to prevent the dreaded “burn” alert.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), Instant Pot Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When reheating, use a stove or microwave with a little added water to keep the dish creamy and prevent drying out.

And there you have it! A delicious, aromatic Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe that not only fills the stomach but warms the heart. Gather your loved ones, and create flavorful memories around the dinner table. Happy cooking!

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

A creamy and flavorful dish made easily in the Instant Pot, perfect for family dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 650

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the chicken

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

For the sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 cup butter
• 2 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Turn your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Add butter and let it melt.
2. Once melted, toss in the chopped onions. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they turn soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, allowing their fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen. Sauté for another minute.
4. Sprinkle in garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. Stir well to combine, letting the spices bloom for about 30 seconds.
5. Toss in the chicken pieces and diced tomatoes. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the spice mixture.
6. Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 8 minutes. Once done, allow it to release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Give it a gentle mix until well combined. Season with salt to taste.
8. Ladle your butter chicken into bowls and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a pop of color. Serve with rice or naan.

Notes

Substitutions: Use thighs instead of breasts for added juiciness or substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Ensure not to overcook the chicken to prevent dryness.