How to Make the Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Indian · Easy · 30 min · 4 servings
A rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish made effortlessly in the Instant Pot with tender chicken in a spiced tomato sauce. It is a weeknight dinner hero that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes.
Why this recipe works
This Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 420 calories with 38g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cubed
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp tikka masala spice blend
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Saute the Aromatics
Set the Instant Pot to Saute mode. Add a drizzle of oil and cook the diced onion for 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and tikka masala spice blend and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Tomatoes
Add the cubed chicken thighs and crushed tomatoes to the pot. Stir everything together to combine well, making sure the chicken is coated in the sauce.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release.
Step 4: Finish with Cream
Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Switch to Saute mode and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- heavy cream → full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version
- chicken thighs → chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the saute step and adding raw garlic directly causes a less developed flavor profile
- Adding cream before pressure cooking causes it to curdle under high heat
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 420 calories, 38g protein, 14g carbs, 22g fat, 3g fiber.
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