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Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken

This creamy and flavorful Instant Pot Butter Chicken is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce infused with Indian spices.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 0.75 cup plain yogurt for marinating
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika for color
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger grated
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup water
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with yogurt, half of the garlic, half of the ginger, paprika, cayenne, salt, and half of the garam masala. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt butter. Add remaining garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  • Add marinated chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes until slightly browned.
  • Pour in tomato puree, water, and remaining garam masala. Stir to combine.
  • Close and lock the Instant Pot lid. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
  • When cooking completes, allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
  • Open the lid and stir in heavy cream. Simmer on sauté mode for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  • Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade tomato puree and freshly ground spices. Adjust cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance.