Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Name: Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tbsp garam masala; 1 tbsp cumin; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp ginger, minced; 1 tsp garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 tbsp butter; Salt, to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Bachelor Food

I couldn't believe how quick and easy it was to make Butter Chicken in my Instant Pot! This recipe has completely transformed my weeknight dinners. The moment I tasted the rich, velvety sauce, I knew I had struck gold. The secret lies in the perfect blend of spices and the convenience of pressure cooking, which intensifies the flavors beautifully. Served with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, this dish is sure to impress your family with minimal effort!

Created by

The Chefdominicooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-17T13:30:19.093Z

When I first attempted to cook Butter Chicken, I was intimidated by the long list of spices and traditional cooking methods. However, using my Instant Pot changed everything. I started with the basic ingredients I had at home, and it was astonishing to see how well the pressure cooker brought them together in such a short time. The sauce was rich and creamy, just like I had hoped, but with a fraction of the effort.

One important tip I learned is to allow your chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices before cooking. This not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with flavor. Trust me, it makes a world of difference! The end result was a dish bursting with flavor that I couldn’t wait to share with my loved ones.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Lusciously creamy sauce that clings to tender chicken
Balanced spices that aren't overwhelming, perfect for everyone
Quick cooking time means dinner is ready before you know it

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of a great Butter Chicken lies in the spices. Garam masala is a spice blend that brings warmth and depth to the dish, while cumin adds a subtle earthiness. Paprika provides a mild sweetness and vibrant color, making it visually appealing. Turmeric not only contributes to the dish's lovely hue but also offers anti-inflammatory benefits. Each spice plays a crucial role in creating a well-rounded flavor profile, so don't skip any of them for an authentic taste.

Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs is key to achieving tender meat that absorbs the rich sauce beautifully. Thighs are more forgiving during cooking compared to chicken breasts, which can dry out. If you prefer, chicken breasts can also be used, but be sure to monitor the cooking time closely to maintain juiciness. Additionally, opting for full-fat yogurt adds creaminess to the marinade, enhancing the overall texture.

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken is a step that should not be rushed. Allow at least 30 minutes, but if time permits, marinating overnight in the refrigerator will yield an exponentially deeper flavor. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken while the spices infuse it with robust flavor. If you're short on time, try to marinate for at least an hour at room temperature; this can also help in flavor absorption, but be cautious not to exceed an hour in warmer conditions.

For a personalized touch, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of cayenne pepper to your marinade to elevate the acidity and add a bit of heat. When ready to cook, ensure that the chicken pieces are coated well in the marinade, as this will help the spices cling better during the cooking process.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Butter Chicken pairs famously with fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up the velvety sauce beautifully. For a more hands-on meal, serve it with warm naan or rotis to scoop up the sauce—a fun alternative that adds a tactile element to dining. Consider garnishing with a drizzle of extra cream or a sprinkle of crushed cashews for textural contrast and visual appeal.

If you're looking to switch things up, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or peas during cooking for extra nutrition. Additionally, substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk will provide a dairy-free option that still maintains the dish's rich mouthfeel. Just remember that coconut milk can bring a distinct flavor, so balance it with the right spices. For leftovers, store in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge, or freeze portions for up to three months.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to bring this dish to life!

For the Butter Chicken

2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp garam masala
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp ginger, minced
1 tsp garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream
4 tbsp butter
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Butter Chicken masterpiece.

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine chicken with yogurt, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Sauté in the Instant Pot

Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' and add butter. Once melted, add in the marinated chicken pieces until slightly browned, about 5 minutes.

Add Tomato Sauce and Cream

Stir in the tomato sauce and heavy cream. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook for 10 minutes. Allow for natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

Serve

Once cooked, stir well and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro over rice or naan.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Butter Chicken!

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.

Tips for Perfect Pressure Cooking

Pressure cooking is a fantastic way to enhance flavors and save time, but it's essential to follow the cooking times closely. For this recipe, set the Instant Pot to pressure cook for 10 minutes. If using chicken breasts, reduce the cooking time by about 2 minutes to ensure they remain juicy. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Natural pressure release is key for a tender result, allowing the juices to redistribute. After 10 minutes of natural release, perform a quick release for any remaining pressure. This technique prevents the chicken from becoming tough and ensures that the sauce remains rich and smooth. If the sauce appears too thick after cooking, adding a splash of water or more cream can help achieve your desired consistency.

Storing and Reheating Butter Chicken

To maximize the flavors in your Butter Chicken, store leftovers in an airtight container. As it sits, the dish continues to develop depth, making reheating a delightful experience. When you're ready to enjoy again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

If you prefer to freeze it, portion your Butter Chicken in freezer-safe containers, ensuring you leave some space for expansion. To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as mentioned before. The flavor may slightly change after freezing, but it maintains its creamy texture beautifully with the right reheating methods.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but be careful not to overcook, as chicken breasts can dry out.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute yogurt with coconut yogurt and heavy cream with coconut cream.

→ What can I serve with Butter Chicken?

It's traditionally served with basmati rice or naan, but you can also serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.