Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken: Creamy, Flavorful, and Ready in Under 30 Minutes

Craving an authentic, incredibly creamy, and deeply flavorful Indian butter chicken but don’t have hours to spare? Look no further! This Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe brings the beloved restaurant-quality dish right to your kitchen in under 30 minutes. Loaded with fragrant spices, rich butter, and succulent, tender chicken enveloped in a luscious tomato-based curry, it’s an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights or whenever you desire a comforting, exotic meal. Serve this delightful creation with warm garlic naan and fluffy basmati rice for a complete culinary experience that will impress even the most discerning palates.

For many, butter chicken is the go-to order at any Indian restaurant, and for good reason! Its harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy notes, coupled with an irresistibly velvety texture, makes it a true crowd-pleaser. This Instant Pot version captures all that magic with remarkable speed and simplicity, making it a staple in your meal rotation.

One of the best aspects of this Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe is its adaptability. You can effortlessly adjust it to suit your personal preferences. For instance, if you appreciate a touch of sweetness, a pinch of sugar not only enhances the flavor profile but also brilliantly balances the natural acidity of the tomato puree, resulting in a perfectly rounded curry. Feel free to add more or less sugar, or even a drizzle of honey, until it tastes just right for you.

What truly sets this Instant Pot Butter Chicken apart is its profound depth of flavor. While you can certainly whip this up last minute, I highly recommend a brief marination for the chicken. Seasoning the chicken pieces with a blend of aromatic garam masala, a hint of chili powder, earthy cumin, and salt, then refrigerating it overnight, allows these spices to deeply infuse into the meat. This step transforms the chicken, making it incredibly tender and ensuring every bite is bursting with authentic Indian flavor. However, if time is of the essence, don’t fret; this recipe is still exceptionally delicious even without the overnight marination, proving its versatility and convenience.

This rich and aromatic dish pairs exquisitely with traditional accompaniments. Classic basmati rice, known for its fragrant aroma and long, slender grains, is a perfect match. Alternatively, any long-grain rice of your choice will beautifully soak up the creamy sauce. For an authentic experience, don’t forget to serve it alongside some warm, fluffy garlic naan bread, ideal for scooping up every last drop of the delectable curry.

Why the Instant Pot is Perfect for Butter Chicken

The Instant Pot isn’t just a convenient appliance; it’s a culinary superpower, especially for dishes like butter chicken. Here’s why it shines:

• Speed: Traditional butter chicken can simmer for a long time to develop flavor and tenderize chicken. The Instant Pot drastically cuts down cooking time, delivering rich flavors and fork-tender chicken in minutes, not hours.
• Flavor Infusion: Pressure cooking forces moisture and flavors deep into the chicken, resulting in a more intensely flavored and tender dish.
• One-Pot Wonder: From sautéing onions and spices to pressure cooking the chicken and finishing the sauce, everything happens in one pot, minimizing cleanup.
• Consistency: The Instant Pot provides a consistent cooking environment, ensuring reliable results every time.

Prepping the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

While the Instant Pot makes quick work of cooking, a little prep goes a long way in enhancing the flavor of your butter chicken. Here’s how to prepare your chicken for the best results:

• Cut the Chicken: Start by cutting boneless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred for extra juiciness) into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes the chicken easier to eat in the curry.
• Season Generously: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with a tablespoon of olive oil, the fragrant garam masala, earthy cumin, a good pinch of salt, and a touch of chili powder. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring each piece of chicken is coated evenly.
• Marinate for Depth: For truly exceptional flavor and tenderness, cover the seasoned chicken and refrigerate it overnight (8-12 hours). This marination period allows the spices to penetrate the chicken, making it incredibly flavorful and juicy. If you’re short on time, even a 30-minute marinate at room temperature will make a difference.
• Bring to Room Temperature: Before cooking, let the marinated chicken sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This promotes more even cooking and helps achieve a better sear when sautéing.

Essential Instant Pot Butter Chicken Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect butter chicken taste:

• Boneless Chicken: Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, but boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor and even more tender results.
• Tomato Puree: The base of our creamy curry. Opt for a good quality 28-ounce can for the best flavor and consistency.
• Butter: This is butter chicken, after all! It lends incredible richness and flavor.
• Onions: Finely diced onions provide a sweet and savory base.
• Garlic & Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger are non-negotiable for authentic Indian flavors.
• Garam Masala: A cornerstone Indian spice blend. It typically contains coriander, cumin, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and black peppercorns, providing a warm, complex aroma. If you’re feeling adventurous, here’s a great garam masala recipe to make your own!
• Chili Powder: Adds a gentle warmth and color. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• Chicken Broth: Adds liquid for pressure cooking and contributes to the savory depth of the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Essential for achieving the signature creamy texture and balancing the spice.
• Salt: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
• Sugar: A pinch helps to round out the flavors and balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics and chicken.
• Fresh Cilantro: For garnish and a burst of freshness.
• Whole Spices (Optional but Recommended): A couple of whole cloves and cardamom pods can deepen the aromatic profile during the initial sauté.

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Butter Chicken:

• Room Temperature Chicken: Always allow your marinated chicken to sit for about 20 minutes at room temperature before cooking. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and prevents it from seizing up when it hits the hot pot.
• Don’t Skimp on Aromatics: Fully sautéing your onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant is crucial for building a strong flavor base.
• Deglaze Thoroughly: After sautéing, add a splash of broth or water and scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot to remove any browned bits. This prevents the “Burn” notice and adds flavor to your sauce.
• Slow Release for Tenderness: While a quick release is possible, a slow or natural pressure release (NPR) can lead to more tender chicken and allows the flavors to meld further.
• Adjust Sweetness and Spice: Taste your curry before adding the cream and adjust sugar and chili powder. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Cream Last: Add the heavy cream at the very end after pressure cooking, on a gentle sauté setting. This keeps the cream from curdling and ensures a silky-smooth finish.

How to Make Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Creating this rich and decadent dish in your Instant Pot is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a perfect curry every time:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Press the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot. Once hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onions, and optionally, a couple of whole cloves and cardamom seeds. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
2. Infuse Garlic & Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger. Cook for an additional 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add Chicken & Liquids: Add your marinated chicken pieces to the pot. Stir in the tomato puree, sugar, salt, and chicken broth (or water). Give everything a good stir to combine.
4. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the sealing ring is properly in place. Set the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position. Press the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” button and set the timer for 5 minutes on High Pressure.
5. Release Pressure: Once the 5 minutes of pressure cooking are complete, allow for a 5-minute natural pressure release (NPR), then carefully move the steam valve to the “Venting” position for a quick release (QR) of any remaining steam. Once the float valve drops, you can safely open the lid.
6. Finish with Cream: Press the “Sauté” function again. Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the curry gently simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it reaches your desired consistency and heats through. The butter will melt into the sauce, adding incredible richness.
7. Season and Serve: Taste the butter chicken and adjust seasoning if necessary (more salt, sugar, or chili powder). Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro before serving hot with rice and naan.

Important Note:

Always prioritize safety. Please read your Instant Pot manufacturer’s guide carefully on how to properly use and maintain your specific model before attempting any recipe.

Why This Instant Pot Butter Chicken is So Good

Beyond its delicious taste, there are numerous reasons why this Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire:

• Unbelievably Rich and Creamy: The combination of butter, heavy cream, and tomato puree creates a luxuriously smooth and flavorful sauce that’s truly irresistible.
• Explosion of Flavor: With a thoughtful blend of spices, garlic, and ginger, this curry delivers an authentic, aromatic experience that rivals your favorite Indian restaurant.
• Effortlessly Quick: The Instant Pot transforms a traditionally long-cooking dish into a speedy weeknight meal, ready from start to finish in less than 30 minutes active cooking time.
• Customizable to Your Taste: Easily adjust the sweetness, spice level, and creaminess to perfectly match your family’s preferences.
• Low Carb & Keto-Friendly Option: By omitting the sugar and ensuring your tomato puree is sugar-free, this recipe can easily be adapted to fit a low-carb or keto lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a comforting dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a great option for family dinners.
• Meal Prep Powerhouse: Butter chicken tastes even better the next day! It’s excellent for meal prepping and reheating.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feeling creative? This Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a fantastic base for experimentation:

• Protein Swaps:
  • Chicken Thighs: For even juicier, richer chicken, substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for breasts. They hold up wonderfully under pressure.
  • Shrimp: For a seafood twist, cook the sauce as directed, then stir in raw shrimp during the final sauté step (Step 7) and cook until just pink, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Paneer Butter Masala: Replace chicken with cubed paneer (Indian cheese) for a delicious vegetarian option. Add paneer during the final sauté step to prevent it from getting tough.
• Vegetarian Additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, cauliflower florets, or spinach during the pressure cooking phase (if they require longer cooking) or during the final sauté for a lighter crunch.
• Tomato Options: If using chopped fresh tomatoes instead of tomato puree, ensure you blend the sauce with an immersion blender once it’s done cooking (before adding cream) for a silky-smooth consistency. You might need to add a bit more liquid.
• Extra Richness: For an even more decadent sauce, blend in a handful of soaked cashews or blanched almonds with a little water until smooth, and add this paste along with the tomato puree.
• Spice Level: Increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. For less spice, reduce or omit the chili powder.
• Sweetness Balance: Adjust sugar to taste. A little bit goes a long way to cut through the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Serving Suggestions Beyond Rice and Naan:
  • Roti or Paratha: Other types of Indian flatbreads are also excellent for soaking up the sauce.
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, serve with steamed or sautéed cauliflower rice.
  • Quinoa or Couscous: Offer a healthy grain alternative.
  • Roasted Vegetables: A side of simple roasted green beans or broccoli can complement the rich curry beautifully.
  • Fresh Salad: A crisp, simple green salad can provide a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Butter chicken is fantastic for meal prep as its flavors deepen over time. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigeration: Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, butter chicken freezes beautifully. Place cooled curry in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating:
  • Stovetop: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
  • Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen chicken?

While fresh chicken is recommended for best flavor, you can use frozen chicken. If using frozen chicken breasts, you may need to increase the pressure cooking time by 2-3 minutes. Ensure chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces before freezing or cooking. Marinating frozen chicken is not ideal; thaw it first if marinating.

What if I don’t have garam masala?

Garam masala is crucial for authentic flavor. If you absolutely can’t find it, you can try a substitute blend of ground cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.

Can I make this dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative or oil, and use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream. Note that the flavor profile will shift slightly.

My sauce is too thin/too thick, what should I do?

If too thin, simmer on the “Sauté” setting (after removing chicken if it’s already perfectly cooked) to reduce and thicken. If too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or heavy cream until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is butter chicken spicy?

Traditionally, butter chicken is mildly spiced. This recipe offers a subtle kick with chili powder. You can easily adjust the amount of chili powder to make it spicier or milder according to your preference.

More Delicious Indian Recipes You’ll Love:

• Coconut Chicken Curry
• Saag Paneer (Keto-Friendly)
• Spiced Indian Lentils
• Coconut Shrimp Curry