Instant Pot Butter Chicken: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. This creamy, rich recipe provides a quick and easy way to indulge in deliciousness without spending hours slaving over the stove. With fragrant spices, tender chicken, and a luscious sauce, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for a comforting meal.

If you’ve ever thought about making a flavorful chicken dish that doesn’t require extensive cooking skills, the Instant Pot Butter Chicken is for you! The combination of fragrant spices and the creaminess of butter and tomato will transport your taste buds. Perfect for a family dinner, special occasions, or meal prep for busy weekdays, this dish is not just about food; it’s an experience. Get ready to discover why this recipe is a must-try!

In this guide, you’ll find an incredible recipe for Instant Pot Butter Chicken, including preparation tips, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this amazing dish will surely impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into what makes Instant Pot Butter Chicken the ultimate choice for a delightful meal!

Preparation and Cooking Time

In total, preparing Instant Pot Butter Chicken will take about 45 minutes, which includes preparation and cooking. Here’s the estimated time breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Natural Pressure Release: 15 minutes

These estimates may vary slightly based on your experience and specific kitchen tools, but this timeline should provide you a good gauge of what to expect.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnishing (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Instant Pot Butter Chicken can be an easy and enjoyable experience if you follow these simple steps:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add a bit of oil and sauté the chopped onion until golden brown. This should take about 5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Incorporate Spices: Add the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds to toast the spices.
4. Add Chicken: Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper, and sauté until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, scraping off any bits stuck to the pot to incorporate all the flavors.
6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot. Set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow for natural pressure release for about 15 minutes after cooking.
7. Stir in Cream and Butter: Once the pressure releases, carefully remove the lid. Stir in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) and butter until smooth.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more spices or salt to suit your preference.
9. Serve and Garnish: If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

These steps will guide you in effortlessly creating this incredible dish. The next time you crave something delicious and satisfying, look no further than your Instant Pot!

How to Serve

To make the most out of your Instant Pot Butter Chicken, consider the following when serving:

1. Pairing Options: Serve over fluffy basmati rice, steamed jasmine rice, or with warm naan bread to mop up the rich and creamy sauce.
2. Elevated Presentation: Use a beautiful serving dish to present the butter chicken and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an added pop of color.
3. Accompaniments: Offer cucumber raita, a side of roasted veggies, or a crisp salad to balance the meal.
4. Mind the Portions: Serve generous portions, encouraging guests to savor each bite. This dish tends to disappear quickly!
5. Beverage Pairing: Complement the spicy and creamy flavors with a glass of iced tea, lassi, or a crisp white wine.

By putting thought into how you serve Instant Pot Butter Chicken, you will enhance the overall dining experience, creating memorable moments with family and friends.

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, opt for whole spices you can grind at home. Freshly ground spices enhance the dish’s authenticity.
• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Taking your time to sauté the onions until golden adds depth to the flavor. A properly caramelized onion can elevate the dish.
• Adjust To Your Spice Tolerance: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder. Conversely, boost the warmth for a spicier kick.
• Add a Splash of Lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the sauce.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to experiment with these variations for a unique twist on Instant Pot Butter Chicken:

1. Creamy Spinach Addition: Stir in fresh spinach after pressure cooking for a pop of color and added nutrients.
2. Substitute Proteins: Try using shrimp or paneer instead of chicken for a different protein option.
3. Vegan Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use coconut milk and vegan butter to keep it plant-based.
4. Coconut Curry Flavor: For a tropical twist, add a tablespoon of curry powder along with the spices for a coconut curry flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Once cooked, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, portion the butter chicken into containers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment

You will need a few essential tools to prepare Instant Pot Butter Chicken effectively:

• Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker
• Cutting board and sharp knife for chopping ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions
• Wooden spoon for stirring or a spatula for deglazing the pot

Conclusion

Instant Pot Butter Chicken offers a combination of rich flavors and easy preparation, making it a beloved staple in many households. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s not just a meal; it’s a warm, comforting experience. Whether served on a busy weeknight or at a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful experience of cooking and savor the flavors of this classic Indian dish!