If you love rich, creamy, and comforting Indian flavors but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender chunks of chicken bathed in a luscious tomato and butter sauce that’s bursting with warm spices the kind of dish that makes you want to curl up with a cozy blanket and savor every bite. The Instant Pot makes it so quick and easy, you’ll wonder why you ever hesitated to make it yourself. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for busy weeknights and special occasions alike!

Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of Indian spices and enjoy a creamy, flavorful dinner that’s ready in a flash.

Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Butter Chicken

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing guests, or treating yourself to comfort food, this butter chicken hits all the right notes. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Serve with rice, naan, or even pasta for a delicious twist.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and affordable chicken cuts.
Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot does all the hard work in less than an hour.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level and creaminess to suit your taste buds.
Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor—everyone loves it!

Ingredients in Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Here’s the delicious mix that brings this dish to life:

Chicken Thighs: Tender, juicy, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Butter: Adds richness and that signature buttery flavor.
Tomato Sauce: The base of the creamy, tangy sauce.
Heavy Cream: For a silky, smooth finish.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh aromatics that build depth.
Garam Masala: The quintessential Indian spice blend for warmth and complexity.
Chili Powder: Adds just the right touch of heat.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Sauté Aromatics: Turn your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt butter, then add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant about 2 minutes.

Add Spices and Chicken: Stir in garam masala, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly with the spices.

Pour in Tomato Sauce: Add the tomato sauce, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to prevent burning.

Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.

Release and Stir in Cream: Once cooking is done, carefully quick release the pressure. Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Serve and Enjoy: Spoon over steamed rice or warm naan and dive into that creamy goodness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
(Note: based on standard recipe quantities.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Instant Pot Butter Chicken

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Serve with basmati rice or warm garlic naan for a classic combo.
Add a side of roasted or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
Pair with a fresh cucumber raita or simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Use leftovers as a filling for wraps or sandwiches for a tasty twist.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
If you prefer less heat, reduce the chili powder or skip it altogether.
For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream.
Make sure to scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot well to avoid the burn warning.
Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful in this recipe.

2. How spicy is this butter chicken?
It has a mild to moderate heat, but you can adjust chili powder to your preference.

3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead?
Absolutely! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, butter chicken freezes well. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. Is garam masala essential?
It adds a signature flavor, but you can substitute with a blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.

6. Can I make it vegan?
Try substituting chicken with tofu or vegetables and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

7. Do I have to use tomato sauce?
Tomato sauce adds richness and tang, but you can also use crushed tomatoes or puree fresh tomatoes.

8. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Stir in cream after cooking off heat and avoid boiling the sauce once cream is added.

9. What can I serve with this butter chicken?
Rice, naan, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad all pair beautifully.

10. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, just make sure your Instant Pot is large enough to hold the extra ingredients.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Butter Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that’s both indulgent and surprisingly easy to make. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish brings warmth, richness, and that classic buttery goodness to your table every time. So fire up your Instant Pot, and get ready for a cozy, flavorful feast!

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