Name: 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs ((cut into small bite-size chunks)); 4 tablespoons butter; 1 onion ((finely chopped)); 5-6 cloves garlic ((minced)); 1 tablespoon ginger ((minced or finely grated)); 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 8 oz tomato sauce ((or 1 cup tomato puree)); 2 tablespoons tomato paste ((or replace with 1/2 cup more tomato sauce)); 3/4 cup water ((or chicken broth)); 1 cup heavy cream ((can sub with evaporated milk, coconut cream, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt)); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Butter chicken is a beloved dish that brings comfort and joy to dinner tables around the world. It’s creamy, aromatic, and packed with flavors that dance on your palate. Best of all, this 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe allows you to whip up this classic Indian dish faster than you can decide what to watch on Netflix tonight. Using the Instant Pot not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows the spices to meld beautifully, making the chicken tender and delicious. Get ready to impress your family or guests with this quick and easy recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

This 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe is a game changer for weeknight dinners. The fusion of spices creates an authentic taste that rivals any restaurant dish while being simple enough for novice cooks. The Instant Pot ensures that the chicken is cooked to perfection without drying out, and the rich, creamy sauce is a perfect accompaniment to rice or naan. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes—what’s not to love?

What’s in the Bowl

To make this delicious 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into small bite-size chunks, or breasts for a leaner option)
4 tablespoons butter
1 onion (finely chopped)
5-6 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon ginger (minced or finely grated)
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
8 oz (1 cup) can tomato sauce (or 1 cup tomato puree)
2 tablespoons tomato paste (or replace with 1/2 cup more tomato sauce)
3/4 cup water (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream (can sub with evaporated milk, coconut cream, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Setup & Equipment

Before you begin cooking, gather the following equipment:

Instant Pot – This is the star of the show and what makes this recipe so quick!
Cutting Board – A sturdy space for chopping your ingredients.
Sharp Knife – For precise cutting of chicken and vegetables.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure accuracy with your ingredients.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring and mixing.

Cook 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken Like This

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion, and sauté until it becomes translucent—about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Spices

Stir in the garam masala, smoked paprika, curry powder, ground cumin, and salt. Cook for about 30 seconds, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their aromas.

Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken

Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot, ensuring they are well coated with the spice mixture. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Add the Tomato Products

Pour in the tomato sauce and add the tomato paste. Stir well to combine everything. Then, add the water or chicken broth, making sure to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot to prevent burning.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to ‘Sealing.’ Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream (or your chosen substitute). Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes on ‘Sauté’ mode to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish your 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve over fluffy basmati rice, with warm naan, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences:

Chicken: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner protein.
Butter: Olive oil or ghee can be used as a substitute for butter.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use evaporated milk, coconut cream, or Greek yogurt.
Tomato Sauce: If you don’t have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes can work in a pinch.

Notes on Ingredients

The spices in this 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken are crucial for achieving that authentic flavor. Garam masala, in particular, is a blend of spices that varies by region, so feel free to use your favorite brand. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped green chilies to the mix.

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice just before serving.
Make sure your tomato products are of good quality for the best flavor in your sauce.

Prep Ahead & Store

This 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to make the most of it:

You can marinate the chicken in the spices and yogurt (if using) a few hours ahead or even overnight for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This dish also freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, you will need to increase the pressure cooking time to about 15-20 minutes. Ensure that the chicken pieces are separated for even cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

This 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken is mildly spiced, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference. Add more curry powder or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free version that still retains a creamy texture.

What should I serve with butter chicken?

Butter chicken is traditionally served with basmati rice or naan. You can also pair it with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Ready to Cook?

This 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken is not only a swift and satisfying dish but also a delightful way to bring the flavors of India into your home kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting meal that your whole family will love!