Imagine coming home after a long day, your stomach rumbling in anticipation of a warm and comforting meal. What if I told you that within just 45 minutes, you could treat yourself to a homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken that rivals your favorite restaurant dish? This easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe combines tender chicken with a luscious, creamy tomato-based sauce that’s bursting with rich spices and flavors.

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort and tradition in Indian cuisine, perfect for any night of the week. Let the enticing aroma fill your kitchen as you savor each bite, bringing a little taste of India right to your table. Whether you’re pouring it over fluffy rice or enjoying it with warm naan, you’ll agree: making Instant Pot Butter Chicken is not just convenient—it’s an experience worth sharing.

Ready to add a delightful dish to your culinary repertoire? Let’s dive into the scrumptious world of Instant Pot Butter Chicken!

Key Takeaways

• Prep time for Instant Pot Butter Chicken is only 10 minutes.
• The dish can be ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• This recipe serves 4 people, making it ideal for families or meal prep.
• Chicken thighs or breasts can be used, providing flexibility in your ingredient choices.
• It features a creamy tomato sauce enhanced by spices like garam masala and curry powder.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• This dish offers a satisfying blend of flavors and nutrition, with balanced protein and calories per serving.

What Is Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a dish loved for its rich flavors. It shows the heart of Indian cuisine. It started in the 1950s in Delhi, made from leftover chicken.

The mix of spices, creamy tomato sauce, and tender chicken makes it hard to resist. It’s become famous all over, thanks to the Instant Pot version.

A Brief History of Butter Chicken

This dish came from the Moti Mahal restaurant. Chefs there mixed marinated chicken with tomato and butter sauce. This made a creamy, spiced dish loved by many.

It moved from Indian tables to restaurants worldwide. This made Indian Butter Chicken a sign of Indian cooking’s greatness.

Key Ingredients in Butter Chicken

The main ingredients are:

• Chicken: Boneless chicken thighs are used for their juiciness.
• Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce creamy.
• Spices: Garam masala, red curry paste, and smoked paprika give it flavor.
• Tomatoes: Tomato sauce and paste add depth and tanginess.

Traditional vs. Instant Pot Versions

Traditional cooking takes time, but the Instant Pot makes it quicker. It cooks the chicken and spices fast, without losing flavor. It’s ready in just 32 minutes.

This means you can enjoy delicious Indian Butter Chicken even when you’re busy.

Why Choose Instant Pot for Butter Chicken?

The Instant Pot is a top choice for making delicious Butter Chicken. It’s not just fast. It also makes the flavors better.

Time-Saving Benefits

Making Butter Chicken in an Instant Pot is quick. It takes less than 30 minutes. Traditional ways can take over an hour.

In the Instant Pot, cooking time is just 5 minutes. Setup and pressure build-up add 15-20 minutes. So, you save a lot of time.

Enhanced Flavors with Pressure Cooking

Pressure cooking in the Instant Pot makes Butter Chicken special. Ingredients blend together, making the chicken tender and juicy. The sauce is rich and creamy.

The spices and ingredients mix well, creating deep flavors. This is hard to get with other cooking methods. Every bite of Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a delight.

Essential Ingredients for Instant Pot Butter Chicken

To make creamy Butter Chicken in the Instant Pot, focus on key ingredients. The right chicken and spices make it taste amazing. This dish is a family favorite.

Chicken: The Best Cuts to Use

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best choice. They stay juicy and soak up spices well. You’ll need 2 pounds, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces. This serves 6 to 8 people, perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

Spices That Make the Dish Unique

The magic of Butter Chicken comes from its spices. Key spices include:

• Garam Masala (2 tablespoons – 1 for marinade, 1 for sauce)
• Kashmiri Chili Powder (2 teaspoons)
• Ground turmeric (1 tablespoon)
• Fresh ginger (grated, 2 tablespoons – split between marinade and sauce)
• Salt (2 teaspoons total, divided)
• Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon)
• Red pepper flakes (to taste)

This spice mix gives Butter Chicken its unique flavor. It balances heat and warmth.

Cream and Tomato Base: The Perfect Mix

A rich sauce is key for Butter Chicken. Mix full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream with tomato paste. You’ll need:

• Heavy Cream (1 cup)
• Tomato Paste (1/2 cup)
• Unsalted Butter (5 tablespoons)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

This mix makes the sauce creamy and flavorful. It goes well with basmati rice or naan.

Preparing Your Instant Pot

Getting your Instant Pot ready is key for a great cooking experience. It’s important for a delicious homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken. Follow these steps to make your dish irresistible.

Setting Up Your Instant Pot

First, make sure your Instant Pot is clean. The inner pot should be in place. For Butter Chicken, use the sauté function to cook aromatics and spices.

High-quality spices are a must for the best taste. Start by sautéing onion, garlic, and ginger. This step is essential for a flavorful dish.

Choosing the Right Cooking Program

After sautéing, switch to high-pressure cooking. Use the manual pressure cook setting for tender chicken. Cook the chicken thighs for 10 to 12 minutes.

Then, let it release naturally for 10 minutes. This keeps the chicken moist and delicious. These steps are key to a great homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken.

Step-By-Step Guide to Cooking Butter Chicken

Making the perfect Instant Pot Butter Chicken with naan is easy. Just follow these steps. You’ll get a dish your family will love.

Prepping the Chicken and Marinade

Begin with 2 lbs of boneless chicken thighs. They are juicy and tender. If you marinate, do it for at least 30 minutes.

Marinating overnight makes the chicken even better. Mix the chicken with spices like 1 tbsp of garam masala and 2 parts cumin. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Heavy cream adds richness; use a 1:2 ratio with the sauce.

Cooking the Base Sauce

Then, sauté 1½ cups of sliced onions in the Instant Pot. They should be tender and smell great. Add minced garlic and fresh ginger for extra flavor.

Use 600 grams of fresh tomatoes or 3 cups of tomato puree. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. This makes the sauce thick and flavorful.

Adding the Chicken and Final Cooking Steps

When the sauce is ready, add the marinated chicken. Close the lid and cook under high pressure for 10-15 minutes. Make sure the chicken is 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Let the pressure release naturally for a few minutes. Now, your Instant Pot Butter Chicken is ready. Serve it with warm naan or fluffy rice.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Mastering homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken is all about a few key tips. These tips help you get the perfect texture and flavor. By adjusting the cooking time and spice levels, you can make a dish that you love. Every bite will be a joy.

Achieving the Ideal Texture

To get that creamy and tender chicken, follow these steps:

• Cooking Time: Set your Instant Pot for 7 minutes at Manual High Pressure. This cooks chicken thighs to perfection, making them tender.
• Pressurizing Time: Pressurizing takes about 10 minutes. It’s important for locking in flavors.
• Heavy Cream: Add ½ to 1 cup of heavy cream at the end. It makes the sauce velvety and coats the chicken well.

Adjusting Spice Levels to Taste

Customizing the spice levels is what makes Instant Pot Butter Chicken special:

• Spice Variety: Mix at least 8 spices, like garam masala, ground coriander, and cinnamon, for rich flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce before serving. Adjust spices if needed to match your taste.
• Experiment: Feel free to add cayenne for heat or more sweet paprika for sweetness. Keep adjusting until it’s just right for you.

Serving Suggestions for Butter Chicken

Don’t stop with just cooking your instant pot Butter Chicken. Think about how to serve it to make the meal even better. Pair it with sides and garnishes to make a delicious meal.

Best Side Dishes to Pair Up

Choosing the right side dish can make your meal better. Here are some great options:

• Basmati rice: It soaks up the sauce, making each bite amazing.
• Instant Pot Butter Chicken with naan: Soft naan is great for dipping in the sauce.
• Sautéed vegetables: They add crunch and balance to the meal.

Ideal Garnishes and Toppings

Garnishes are key for both looks and taste. Here are some top picks:

• Chopped fresh cilantro: It adds a fresh, bright taste.
• Dollop of yogurt: Yogurt brings creaminess and cools the spices.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the dish and enhances flavors.
• Toasted sesame seeds: They add crunch and a nutty flavor.

Choosing the right sides and garnishes makes your meal complete. It highlights the rich flavors of your instant pot Butter Chicken.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

After enjoying your authentic Butter Chicken in Instant Pot, you might have leftovers. Storing and reheating them right can keep the flavors rich. This way, every bite will taste as good as the first.

Proper Storage Techniques

Store leftover Butter Chicken in airtight containers to keep it fresh. This method keeps flavors in and prevents spoilage. Leftovers can stay good in the fridge for up to five days.

If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Freeze Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for five to six months. Remove as much air as you can to avoid freezer burn.

Best Ways to Reheat for Full Flavor

When reheating, consider a few methods. One is using a stovetop. Place the Butter Chicken in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until it’s warm, which may take a few minutes. Adding chicken broth or water helps keep it moist.

For the microwave, heat for about two minutes, then stir and heat for another 30 seconds. This method is fast but check the chicken’s temperature.

Making Butter Chicken Ahead of Time

Preparing your homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken in advance makes it taste better. The longer it marinates, the richer the flavor. You can store it in the freezer or fridge for later, keeping its quality high.

Freezing Instructions

Freeze your homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken in an airtight container for the best taste. It can stay good for up to three months. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Let it cool down completely before putting it in the container.
• Make sure there’s room in the container for it to expand while freezing.
• Write the date on the container so you know how long it’s been there.

Thawing and Reheating Tips

Thawing and reheating your frozen Instant Pot Butter Chicken will keep its flavors and texture. Here’s how to do it:

1. Thaw it in the fridge overnight for the safest thawing.
2. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to warm it evenly.
3. Add a little water or cream while reheating to keep it moist.
4. Make sure it heats up to at least 165°F before you serve it.

Enjoying homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken doesn’t have to take a lot of time. Making it ahead lets the flavors mix, so you have a delicious meal ready when you need it.

Variations of Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Instant Pot Butter Chicken is loved for its taste and ease. You can try different versions to fit your diet. There are vegetarian, vegan, and other protein options to try.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

For a vegetarian version, use chickpeas or paneer instead of chicken. Chickpeas are filling and tasty. Paneer adds a creamy touch.

For a vegan version, try tofu or coconut cream. Press tofu for 15 minutes to soak up flavors. Pan-fry, bake, or air fry tofu for different textures. Coconut cream adds richness to the dish.

Different Proteins to Experiment With

Butter Chicken isn’t just for chicken. Try shrimp, turkey, or other proteins for a twist. Shrimp cooks fast and tastes great. Turkey is lighter but just as flavorful.

With so many options, Instant Pot Butter Chicken can please everyone. Try these variations and find your favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions about Instant Pot Butter Chicken

When you make Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken, you might have questions. Knowing common mistakes helps make your dish creamy and tasty. Here are some questions to help you make perfect creamy Butter Chicken in the Instant Pot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common errors for the best taste:

• Skipping the Marinade: Marinate the chicken for at least an hour or overnight for more flavor.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Cooking too much chicken at once can cause uneven cooking. Cook no more than 2 pounds of chicken thighs.
• Insufficient Sautéing Time: Sauté onions and garlic for 8-10 minutes to make the sauce taste better.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Make sure the chicken cooks for 8-10 minutes in the sauce and reaches 165ºF.

FAQs on Cooking Time and Ingredients

Find answers to your questions about cooking time and ingredients:

• What is the cooking time for Instant Pot Butter Chicken? Cooking the chicken in the sauce takes 8-10 minutes.
• Can I substitute the heavy cream? You can use coconut cream or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegan version.
• What are the main ingredients? Key ingredients include Greek yogurt, garlic, tomato sauce, heavy cream, and chicken thighs.
• Is it okay to prepare this in advance? Yes, this dish is perfect for making ahead of time and can be stored for up to three days in an airtight container.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Enjoying your homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a treat. It’s quick to make, with only 10 minutes of prep and about 35 minutes to cook. This makes it perfect for a busy weeknight.

Pressure cooking saves time and boosts flavors. Every bite is a joy for you and your family.

Final Thoughts on This Quick Meal

Each serving of Instant Pot Butter Chicken is packed with good stuff. It has proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins. Plus, it’s just 235 calories per serving, so you can feel good about eating it.

The mix of chicken, spices, and creamy tomato sauce is amazing. You’ll want to make it again and again!

Encouragement to Try the Recipe Over and Over

Try this recipe many times and try new sides. You can serve it with rice, naan, or veggies. The options are endless.

Now that you know how to make it, get creative. Enjoy this classic dish often!