The aroma of spices fills the air, dancing around you like a well-rehearsed Bollywood number. Creamy, rich, and oh-so-satisfying, this Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is a warm hug for your taste buds. buttermilk fried chicken Imagine tender chicken simmering in a luscious sauce packed with flavors that make your heart sing and your stomach do a happy jig.
Now, let me take you down memory lane. I vividly recall the first time I tasted Chicken Tikka Masala at my friend’s birthday party. It was love at first bite, and I just knew I had to recreate that magic in my kitchen. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering, this dish promises an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
- The flavor profile is a rich blend of spices and creaminess that will transport you straight to India.
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.
- Versatile enough for meal prep or special occasions, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 1.5 pounds of chicken will do nicely; choose fresh cuts for optimal tenderness.
Plain Yogurt: Use unsweetened yogurt to help marinate the chicken and tenderize it beautifully while adding flavor.
Tikka Masala Spice Blend: You can use store-bought or homemade; just ensure it includes cumin, coriander, and garam masala for that authentic taste.
Canned Tomatoes: A 14-ounce can of crushed tomatoes brings acidity and richness to the sauce; opt for fire-roasted ones if you like a smoky flavor.
For the Sauce:
Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture that perfectly balances the spices without overpowering them.
Fresh Garlic and Ginger: Both add a punch of flavor; use freshly minced for the best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
For more inspiration, check out this Honey Mustard Chicken recipe.
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine yogurt and half of the tikka masala spice blend. Add diced chicken breasts and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight if you’re feeling ambitious).
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Add some oil and sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant—this should take about one minute.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken along with any leftover marinade into the pot. Sauté until lightly browned—about four minutes should suffice.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Coconut Milk
Pour in crushed tomatoes along with coconut milk. Sprinkle in the remaining spice blend and stir well to combine all those beautiful flavors together.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for about eight minutes. Once done, allow it to release naturally for ten minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Step 6: Serve It Up
After opening the lid, give everything a gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread—because dipping is always encouraged!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with more coconut milk or garnish with fresh cilantro for that perfect finishing touch!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
- With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it transforms any weeknight into a culinary adventure.
- Get ready for a flavor explosion that even your taste buds will applaud!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by sautéing the onions and spices in your Instant Pot to release their flavors. Next, brown the chicken before adding the tomatoes and yogurt for that creamy goodness. Let it pressure cook, and you’ll have magic in no time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with different spices like garam masala or add coconut milk for an extra layer of flavor. Your kitchen, your rules!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Don’t forget to stir!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Start with fresh spices for maximum flavor; stale spices can dull your dish.
- Make sure to brown the chicken properly to enhance its taste and texture.
- Finally, don’t rush the pressure release; let it naturally release for best results.
The first time I made this Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala, my friends declared me a culinary genius. I still remember their amazed faces as they devoured every last bit—definitely a night to remember!
FAQs :
What is the cooking time for the Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe?
The cooking time for the Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is approximately 10-15 minutes once it reaches pressure. However, you should also account for the time it takes to sauté the ingredients and for the Instant Pot to come to pressure, which can take an additional 10-15 minutes. garlic butter chicken recipe Overall, you can expect a total cooking time of about 30 minutes from start to finish, making this a quick and delicious meal option.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in your Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe. The Instant Pot is designed to cook frozen meat safely. However, it’s advisable to increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes to ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Just be sure to cut larger pieces into smaller chunks if possible to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?
You can serve your Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala with various sides. Traditional options include basmati rice or naan bread, which are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. Additionally, you could pair it with steamed vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad. These accompaniments will complement the flavors of your dish beautifully.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt the Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe to be dairy-free. Simply substitute coconut cream or almond milk for yogurt and heavy cream. This will maintain the creamy texture without using dairy products. Adjust spices as needed to ensure balanced flavors while keeping it suitable for those avoiding dairy. For more inspiration, check out this Cream of Chicken Soup Chicken recipe.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe :
In conclusion, the Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to enjoy this classic dish at home. With its blend of aromatic spices and tender chicken, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Remember that using frozen chicken is acceptable and can simplify preparation. spinach artichoke chicken By following this recipe, you’ll create a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion while saving valuable time in the kitchen. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala is a creamy, flavorful dish that brings the taste of India right to your kitchen. Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in spices and yogurt, then simmered in a rich sauce made with coconut milk and crushed tomatoes. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties, ensuring an explosion of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup plain unsweetened yogurt
- 2 tbsp tikka masala spice blend
- 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, minced
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix yogurt and half the tikka masala spice blend. Add diced chicken and coat well; let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add oil and sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add marinated chicken; sauté until lightly browned (about 4 minutes).
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, and remaining spice blend.
- Secure the lid and pressure cook on high for 8 minutes. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
- Stir gently after opening the lid, adjust seasoning as needed, and serve over basmati rice or with naan.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
0 thoughts on “Irresistible Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe”