If you’re craving a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen, look no further than our mouthwatering recipe for Delicious Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala. This Indian-inspired dish combines tender chunks of chicken in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, infused with a perfect blend of spices. With the help of the Instant Pot, you can have this delectable dish ready to serve in no time. Say goodbye to lengthy cooking processes and hello to a quick, easy, and scrumptious dinner option that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
If you’re looking for a delicious and flavorful chicken dish that’s quick and easy to make, look no further than Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala. This Indian-inspired dish is packed with tender chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and aromatic spices that will tantalize your taste buds. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this mouthwatering dish from start to finish. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients we need for this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken
First and foremost, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. These will be the star of the show, so make sure you choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
Marinade
To infuse the chicken with maximum flavor, we’ll be marinating it in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices. This will not only tenderize the chicken but also lend it a wonderful depth of flavor.
Sauce
The sauce for our Chicken Tikka Masala is what brings everything together. We’ll be using a combination of tomato puree, heavy cream, spices like garam masala, turmeric, and paprika, as well as a touch of honey for a hint of sweetness. This sauce is what gives the dish its rich and creamy texture.
Garnish
To add some freshness and color to the dish, we’ll be garnishing it with freshly chopped cilantro. This herb will not only enhance the flavors but also give the dish a vibrant and appealing presentation.
Preparation
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the preparation process. We’ll break it down into three main steps: marinating the chicken, preparing the sauce, and cooking the chicken.
Marinating the Chicken
To ensure that our chicken is packed with flavor, we’ll marinate it in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices. Combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl, add the chicken, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight if possible. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it incredibly tender.
Preparing the Sauce
While the chicken marinates, let’s prepare the sauce. In the Instant Pot, combine tomato puree, heavy cream, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, salt, and a touch of honey. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are fully incorporated. This sauce will be the base for our Chicken Tikka Masala, providing it with its creamy and aromatic essence.
Cooking the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated and the sauce is prepared, it’s time to cook the chicken. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, add a little oil, and brown the marinated chicken on both sides. This step will help lock in the flavors and give the chicken a beautiful golden color. Next, pour in the prepared sauce and give it a good stir to coat the chicken evenly. Close the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release. This will ensure that the chicken is perfectly cooked and tender.
Using the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that makes cooking this Chicken Tikka Masala a breeze. Let’s dive into the steps of using the Instant Pot to prepare this delicious dish.
Setting up the Instant Pot
Before we start cooking, make sure your Instant Pot is clean and in proper working condition. Double-check that the sealing ring is properly inserted and that the pressure release valve is set to the sealing position. This will ensure that the pressure builds up inside the pot and keeps the flavors locked in.
Pressure cooking the Chicken
Once you’ve browned the marinated chicken and added the sauce, it’s time to put your Instant Pot to work. Close the lid securely and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure, but once it does, it will work its magic and infuse the chicken with all the delicious flavors from the marinade and the sauce.
Finalizing the Dish
After the cooking time is up, release the pressure quickly by moving the pressure release valve to the venting position. Be careful not to burn yourself with the steam. Once the steam has fully vented, carefully open the Instant Pot and marvel at the beautiful chicken swimming in the creamy sauce. Give it a gentle stir to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed, and your Chicken Tikka Masala is ready to be served.
Serving
Now that our Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy the delicious flavors. Here are some serving suggestions and tips to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Tikka Masala pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. Serve it over a bed of rice and garnish it with freshly chopped cilantro for added freshness and flavor. You can also serve it with some cooling raita or a side of crispy papadums for a complete Indian meal experience.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, which is rare because this dish is incredibly tasty, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the Chicken Tikka Masala in a pan or the microwave, and it will still taste just as good as the day you made it.
Tips and Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the basics of making Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala, let’s explore some tips and variations to help you customize this dish to your liking.
Using Greek Yogurt
If you want to elevate the tanginess and creaminess of the marinade, you can substitute regular yogurt with Greek yogurt. The thicker consistency of Greek yogurt will give the chicken an even more luxurious texture.
Adding Vegetables
Feel free to experiment with adding vegetables to your Chicken Tikka Masala. Some popular additions include bell peppers, onions, and even peas. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the marinated chicken, and they’ll absorb all the delicious flavors.
Adjusting Spice Level
If you prefer a milder or spicier version of Chicken Tikka Masala, you have full control over the spice level. Increase or decrease the amount of chili powder or red pepper flakes in the marinade and the sauce to suit your taste buds. Remember, cooking is all about making the dish your own, so feel free to be adventurous and adjust the spices accordingly.
Conclusion
Summary
In conclusion, Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful and flavorful dish that can be made effortlessly with the help of your trusty Instant Pot. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a rich creamy sauce is a true culinary delight that will impress your family and friends. With a little marinating, sautéing, and pressure cooking, you can enjoy this Indian-inspired dish in no time.
Enjoying the Dish
So why wait? Gather the ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to delight in the exquisite flavors of Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So fire up your Instant Pot, and let the aromatic spices transport you to the vibrant streets of India, right in the comfort of your own kitchen. Happy cooking and bon appétit!