Instant Pot Chicken Masala: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Instant Pot Chicken Masala is the ultimate dish for anyone craving a rich, flavorful Indian meal that’s easy to prepare. This recipe combines tender chicken with aromatic spices, resulting in a delightful experience that will tantalize your taste buds. The use of the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also infuses the ingredients with deep flavors, making this dish a favorite among families and guests alike.

From the first bite, you’ll be struck by the amazing blend of spices and the savory goodness of the chicken, reflecting the essence of authentic Indian cuisine. If you’re looking for a dish that will impress your friends and family or simply elevate your weekly dinner routine, Instant Pot Chicken Masala is the recipe you need in your repertoire.

This guide will walk you through the reasons why this recipe is so beloved, the preparation and cooking time required, the full list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and finally, how to serve this incredible dish. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that promises not only delicious results but also the joy of creating something truly special.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Instant Pot Chicken Masala takes approximately 40 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes (chopping ingredients and measuring spices)
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including pressure cooking)
• Natural Release Time: 5-10 minutes

These timings may vary slightly depending on your familiarity with the Instant Pot and personal cooking speed, but this framework should give you a reliable estimate.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced or grated
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 medium fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1 cup coconut milk or yogurt
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Instant Pot Chicken Masala is simple and can be done by following these straightforward steps:

1. Sauté Onions: Turn the Instant Pot on to the sauté setting. Add the vegetable oil and allow it to heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Spices: Sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Stir well to combine, cooking for a minute to activate the spices.
4. Add Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes, mixing well with the sautéed onion and spices. Let it cook for 2 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.
5. Add Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot, stirring to coat them well with the tomato spice mixture.
6. Pour Coconut Milk: Add the coconut milk (or yogurt) and salt. Stir until everything is combined.
7. Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the pressure valve is sealed. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
8. Natural Release: Allow the Instant Pot to natural release for about 5-10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
9. Final Touch: Stir the chicken masala well. If desired, adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices to taste.
10. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the chicken masala before serving.

By following these steps, you’ll create a flavorful and aromatic Instant Pot Chicken Masala that everyone will love.

How to Serve

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Chicken Masala, presentation and accompaniments can make all the difference. Here are some recommendations:

1. Serve it Hot: Always serve the chicken masala hot for the best taste experience.
2. Accompaniment Options: Pair it with steamed basmati rice, fluffy naan, or roti to soak up the delicious sauce.
3. Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds both color and a burst of flavor.
4. Add a Side Salad: A simple cucumber or tomato salad can be a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
5. Garnishes: Consider adding yogurt or a drizzle of cream on top for added richness.
6. Beverage Pairing: Serve with a cool beverage, like mango lassi or iced tea, to balance the spices.

Presenting Instant Pot Chicken Masala in an appealing way will not only delight your guests but also elevate your dining experience. Enjoy this incredible dish and the joy it brings to your table!

Additional Tips

• Marinating the Chicken: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in spices and yogurt for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chili powder.
• Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs such as mint along with cilantro can provide an exciting flavor twist.
• Additional Vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to make the dish even more nutritious and colorful.
• Experiment with Aromatics: Consider adding a bay leaf or a few cardamom pods while sautéing the onions for an aromatic depth.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to customize your Instant Pot Chicken Masala! Here are some delicious variations to consider:

1. Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas, paneer, or tofu. Adjust cooking time as needed for the different ingredients.
2. Coconut Curry Twist: Increase the quantity of coconut milk for a creamier texture, transforming it into a coconut curry.
3. Add Nuts: Toss in cashews or almonds during the last few minutes of cooking for an added crunch and richness.
4. Different Proteins: Try using shrimp or fish instead of chicken. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
5. Spicy Version: For those who love heat, add in green chilies or increase the chili powder for a spicier kick.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftover Instant Pot Chicken Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Ensure it's stored in a leak-proof container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: When ready to serve, reheating in the microwave or on the stove is recommended. Add a splash of water or coconut milk if it feels too thick.

Special Equipment

You’ll find the following equipment helpful in preparing your Instant Pot Chicken Masala:

• Instant Pot: The key to making this dish quickly and efficiently.
• Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and chicken.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for cutting meat and veggies easily.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate measurement of spices and ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir and mix ingredients.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken Masala is a wonderfully flavorful dish that embodies the spirit of Indian cuisine. Quick to prepare and rich in taste, this recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With its delightful spices and tender chicken, it has the power to bring everyone together around the dining table. The versatility and ease of preparation make it a must-have in your cooking repertoire.