Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala

If you’re searching for a rich, flavorful dish that comes together in no time, look no further than Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala. This beloved Indian classic is known for its creamy sauce and aromatic spices, and making it in the Instant Pot takes the hassle out of cooking. With tender chunks of chicken simmered in a spiced tomato and coconut milk sauce, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it pairs beautifully with brown rice or warm naan, making it a complete meal that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The Instant Pot allows you to develop deep flavors in a fraction of the time it would take to cook on the stovetop. The combination of spices, including garam masala and turmeric, creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. This dish is a wonderful way to introduce your family to new flavors while keeping the preparation simple. It’s versatile, hearty, and perfect for meal prep!

Your Shopping Guide

To make your shopping experience a breeze, here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need for the Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-size chunks
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – divided
• 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion – finely chopped
• 4 large garlic cloves – minced
• 4 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 8 ounces tomato sauce – no added salt variety, if possible
• 14 ounces light coconut milk
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• Cooked brown rice – for serving
• Naan bread – optional for serving
• Fresh cilantro – for garnish

Essential Tools for Success

To ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools:

• Instant Pot – the key to quick and easy cooking.
• Cutting board and knife – for chopping the chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to accurately measure your ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the ingredients.
• Serving bowls – for presenting your delicious meal.

Cooking Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala: The Process

Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating your Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Plug in your Instant Pot and set it to the “Sauté” function. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the garam masala, ground chili powder, ground cumin, ground turmeric, ground cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook the spices with the onion mixture for about a minute to release their flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken

Add the bite-sized chicken chunks to the pot and stir well to coat them with the spice mixture. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned.

Step 5: Add Tomato Sauce and Coconut Milk

Pour in the tomato sauce and light coconut milk, stirring to combine. Make sure to scrape any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot to avoid the burn notice.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to the sealing position. Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set the timer for 10 minutes.

Step 7: Release the Pressure

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure. Carefully open the lid.

Step 8: Stir in Peas and Greek Yogurt

Add the frozen peas to the pot and stir. Finally, mix in the plain nonfat Greek yogurt until well combined and creamy.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

Serve your Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala over cooked brown rice or with naan bread, if desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a touch of color and flavor.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you’re looking to customize your Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala, consider these swaps and alternatives:

• For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
• Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Use low-fat coconut milk to reduce calories.
• For added vegetables, include spinach or bell peppers along with the peas.

Slip-Ups to Skip

To ensure your cooking experience is seamless, be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Not scraping the bottom of the pot after sautéing; this can lead to a burn notice during pressure cooking.
• Forgetting to set the valve to sealing, which will prevent the pot from coming to pressure.
• Overcooking the chicken; it should be tender but not dry.
• Skipping the Greek yogurt at the end; it adds creaminess and balances the spices.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala is perfect for meal prep. Here are some tips for making ahead and storing:

You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze the Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The flavors get even better as they sit!

Helpful Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the cooking time to 12-15 minutes to ensure it cooks thoroughly.

What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked brown rice, naan bread, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead?

Absolutely! Sauté the ingredients in a skillet first, then transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

How do I make it spicier?

If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped green chilies when cooking the onions.

If you love Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala, you might also enjoy these delightful recipes:

Bring It Home

There you have it! A rich and creamy Instant-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its vibrant flavors and comforting components, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home. Whether you choose to serve it with rice or naan, each bite is a delight. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of India right from your kitchen!