Go Back

Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala

This **Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala** is a **rich, creamy, and flavor-packed Indian-inspired dish** that’s ready in a **fraction of the time** compared to traditional methods.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

  • - Instant Pot (6-quart or larger)
  • - Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • - Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • - 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • - 1 small onion diced
  • - 3 cloves garlic minced
  • - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • - 1 teaspoon cumin
  • - 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • - 1 teaspoon paprika
  • - ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • - ½ teaspoon coriander
  • - 1 teaspoon salt
  • - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • - 1 14.5 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • - ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for dairy-free
  • - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • - 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to balance acidity
  • - ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • #### **Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics**
  • Set the **Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode** and heat the **olive oil**. Add the **onion** and cook for **2-3 minutes** until softened. Stir in the **garlic and ginger** and sauté for **30 seconds** until fragrant.
  • #### **Step 2: Add the Spices & Chicken**
  • Stir in the **cumin, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, coriander, salt, and black pepper**. Add the **chicken** and toss to coat in the spices. Cook for **2 minutes**, stirring occasionally.
  • #### **Step 3: Pressure Cook**
  • Pour in the **crushed tomatoes** and mix well. Close the lid, set the valve to **Sealing**, and select **"Pressure Cook" (Manual) on High for 8 minutes**. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for **5 minutes**, then do a **quick release**.
  • #### **Step 4: Finish the Sauce**
  • Set the Instant Pot to **“Sauté” mode** again. Stir in the **heavy cream (or coconut milk), butter, and sugar (if using)**. Let simmer for **2-3 minutes** until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • #### **Step 5: Serve & Enjoy**
  • Garnish with **fresh cilantro** and serve hot with **rice or naan**.