The Ultimate Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe

Imagine a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced curry that tastes like it simmered for hours, yet comes together in a fraction of the time. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, that dream becomes a delicious reality with this incredible **Instant Pot Butter Chicken** recipe! Often considered a staple of Indian cuisine, butter chicken is beloved worldwide for its tender pieces of chicken swimming in a luxurious tomato-based sauce. Traditionally, this dish can be quite an undertaking, requiring multiple pots and a good chunk of your afternoon. But thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, we’ve transformed a classic into a quick and convenient weeknight meal without sacrificing any of that authentic, comforting flavor.

Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned pro looking for a faster way to enjoy your favorite curry, this **Instant Pot Butter Chicken** is about to become your new go-to. It’s perfect for busy evenings, meal prep, or simply when you’re craving something truly satisfying. The pressure cooker infuses the chicken with flavor and ensures it’s incredibly tender, while the sauce develops a depth that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress your taste buds and simplify your cooking process with this irresistible dish that brings the restaurant experience right into your home kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Crafting the perfect **Instant Pot Butter Chicken** starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this incredibly flavorful meal:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes (thighs are recommended for juicier results)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated or minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess and tang)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder (or paprika for less heat)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup, to balance acidity
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions for Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Follow these simple steps to make the most delicious and tender **Instant Pot Butter Chicken**:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot and set it to “Normal.” Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil to the inner pot. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add Ginger and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Toast Spices: Add the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, Kashmiri chili powder (or paprika), and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant. This step is crucial for developing the deep flavors in your **Instant Pot Butter Chicken** sauce.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Stir well, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. This deglazing prevents the “Burn” notice and adds flavor.
5. Add Chicken: Carefully add the cubed chicken to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the sauce. Do not stir too much after this point, as we want the sauce to cook effectively.
6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, make sure the vent is sealed, and select “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) on High for 8 minutes. For chicken breasts, 6 minutes is usually sufficient to prevent overcooking, while thighs benefit from the full 8 minutes to become incredibly tender.
7. Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5-10 minutes. This helps the chicken remain juicy. After 5-10 minutes, carefully quick release any remaining pressure by turning the venting knob.
8. Finish the Sauce: Open the lid. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, the heavy cream, Greek yogurt (if using), and brown sugar (or maple syrup). Stir gently until everything is well combined and the butter has melted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thin, you can press “Sauté” again and simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
9. Serve: Garnish your delicious **Instant Pot Butter Chicken** with fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Instant Pot Butter Chicken

This rich and flavorful **Instant Pot Butter Chicken** is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments truly elevates the dining experience. Here are some fantastic serving ideas to make your dish even more special:

• Basmati Rice: The classic choice! Fluffy basmati rice is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
• Naan Bread: Warm, soft naan is ideal for scooping up the tender chicken and savory sauce. Garlic naan or butter naan adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Roti or Chapati: Lighter bread options that are just as effective for enjoying this fantastic curry.
• Steamed Vegetables: A simple side of steamed green beans, broccoli, or spinach can add a fresh, healthy contrast to the rich meal.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt and cucumber dip can balance the richness and mild spice of the butter chicken beautifully.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint.

Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Q1: Can I make this Instant Pot Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! **Instant Pot Butter Chicken** tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q2: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While fresh chicken is always recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen chicken. If using frozen chicken, you will need to increase the pressure cooking time by approximately 2-4 minutes. Ensure the chicken is separated before adding it to prevent uneven cooking.

Q3: How can I make my Instant Pot Butter Chicken spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of Kashmiri chili powder or cayenne pepper. You could also add a finely chopped green chili (like a serrano or jalapeño) along with the ginger and garlic during the sauté step for an extra kick. Alternatively, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred in at the end can provide a quick boost of spice.

Q4: What if my sauce is too thin or too thick?

If your sauce is too thin after adding the cream, you can use the “Sauté” function for a few minutes to simmer and reduce it to your desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. If it’s too thick, simply add a splash more chicken broth or water until it reaches your preferred texture.

Q5: Can I freeze leftover Instant Pot Butter Chicken?

Yes, **Instant Pot Butter Chicken** freezes wonderfully! Allow the curry to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, stirring well. You might need to add a splash of water or cream when reheating to restore its original consistency.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal Awaits!

There you have it – a truly magnificent **Instant Pot Butter Chicken** recipe that promises rich flavors, tender chicken, and surprisingly little effort. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that transports your taste buds to a world of aromatic spices and creamy indulgence, all from the convenience of your Instant Pot. Forget takeout, because you now have the power to create a restaurant-quality curry right in your own kitchen.

We encourage you to try this recipe tonight and discover just how easy and rewarding homemade Indian cuisine can be. Don’t forget to share your cooking adventures with us! We love hearing your feedback and seeing your culinary creations. Leave a comment below, tell us how your **Instant Pot Butter Chicken** turned out, and share any modifications you made. For more incredible, easy-to-follow recipes that make cooking a joy, be sure to explore more of what www.thenextrecipes.com has to offer. Happy cooking!