If you’re craving the rich, creamy, and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine but want a quick, fuss-free meal, this Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe is an absolute game-changer. It combines succulent chicken pieces simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce, enriched with butter and cream, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot in no time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing friends, this dish brings authentic comfort with a speedy twist, making weeknight dinners or special meals effortless and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Speedy Cooking: The Instant Pot cuts down traditional simmering times so you get tender, flavorful butter chicken in under an hour.
- One-Pot Wonder: From sautéing spices to pressure cooking, everything happens in one pot for minimal cleanup.
- Authentic Flavor: This recipe balances traditional Indian spices with creamy tomato sauce, delivering classic taste every time.
- Adaptable & Flexible: You can easily tweak spice levels and ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Butter chicken actually tastes better the next day, so it’s great for meal prep or next-day meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together to make your Instant Pot Butter Chicken taste rich, smooth, and bursting with authentic Indian warmth. Each component adds a layer of flavor, from creamy textures to aromatic spices and savory depth.
- Boneless Chicken Thighs: They stay juicy and tender during pressure cooking, perfect for absorbing flavors.
- Butter: Adds richness and smoothness that defines the “butter chicken” experience.
- Tomato Puree: Creates the vibrant base of the sauce, balancing tang and sweetness.
- Heavy Cream: Softens the spices and gives a luscious creamy finish.
- Garlic & Ginger Paste: Builds aromatic depth and warmth from the start.
- Garam Masala: A fragrant spice blend crucial for authentic Indian flavor.
- Chili Powder: Adjust this to your preferred spice level for a mild kick or more heat.
- Cumin & Coriander: Ground spices that add earthiness and complexity.
- Onions: Sautéed to sweetness, adding body and texture to the sauce.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors and seasoning perfectly.
- Fresh Cilantro: Optional garnish that adds a fresh, herbal brightness.
- Water or Chicken Broth: Helps build the sauce and assists pressure cooking.
Variations for Instant Pot Butter Chicken
The beauty of the Instant Pot Butter Chicken is how easily it can be customized to match your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you want it lighter, richer, or packed with veggies, this recipe adapts effortlessly.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for paneer cubes or cauliflower for a delicious meat-free option.
- Lower Fat: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
- Spice Level: Dial up the chili powder or add fresh green chilies for extra heat.
- Smokier Flavor: Finish with a pinch of smoked paprika or add kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for authentic aroma.
- Extra Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, peas, or spinach right after cooking for extra color and nutrition.
How to Make Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and melt the butter. Add finely chopped onions, garlic, and ginger paste, cooking until fragrant and golden brown. This base builds the flavor foundation for the sauce.
Step 2: Toast the Spices
Sprinkle in garam masala, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt. Stir constantly for about a minute to release the spices’ aromas without burning them.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Tomato Puree
Toss in the chicken thighs, stirring well to coat with spices. Pour in the tomato puree and a bit of water or chicken broth to create the sauce’s body.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Seal the lid and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 8 minutes. This ensures the chicken becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Finish with Cream
After quick-releasing the pressure, open the pot and stir in heavy cream for rich, velvety texture. Adjust seasoning if needed and let it simmer on sauté mode for a couple more minutes.
Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Butter Chicken
- Use Thighs Over Breasts: Thighs stay moist and tender under pressure—breasts can dry out easily.
- Don’t Skip Sauté Steps: Sautéing onions and spices develops that deep, authentic flavor.
- Adjust Cream Amount: Add cream gradually to control creaminess without overpowering spices.
- Thicken Sauce if Needed: Switch to sauté mode and let the sauce reduce or mix a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry if it’s too thin.
- Prep Ahead: You can chop and measure spices in advance for a super quick dinner assembly.
How to Serve Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro leaves brighten up the dish with herbal freshness, while a drizzle of cream or a small pat of butter adds extra indulgence right before serving.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up every drop of the rich sauce, making each bite a perfect blend of creamy and aromatic.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try butter chicken stuffed in parathas or rolled up in wraps with fresh veggies and cooling yogurt sauce for a portable delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Butter chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making it an ideal leftover meal.
Freezing
Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for hassle-free meals anytime.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much in storage.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep in mind breasts cook faster and can dry out under pressure, so reduce cooking time and watch closely to avoid toughness.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default; it’s mildly spiced but you can easily increase the chili powder or add fresh chilies if you want more heat.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
While marinating adds flavor, this Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe skips that step to save time without sacrificing taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap butter for oil and use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream to keep it creamy and delicious.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
After cooking, switch to sauté mode and let the sauce simmer uncovered until it reduces or stir in a small cornstarch slurry to thicken quickly.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe truly brings the best of traditional Indian flavors into your home with unmatched convenience and taste. Once you try it, you’ll see how easy it is to create that rich, creamy comfort food without hours in the kitchen. So grab your Instant Pot and get ready to fall in love with butter chicken all over again!