Get ready to savor the flavors of a delicious and hearty dish with our simple and foolproof recipe for Instant Pot Butter Chicken. With tender pieces of chicken simmered in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, this Indian-inspired dish will become a favorite in no time. Say goodbye to lengthy cooking times and say hello to a quick and easy weeknight meal that is packed with aromatic spices and a mouthwatering taste. Get out your Instant Pot and let’s dive into this delightful recipe.
Exploring the World of Instant Pot
Ingredients
To make delicious Homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken, we will need the following ingredients:
Chicken
Chicken is the star of this dish, and you can use bone-in or boneless pieces according to your preference. The tender and juicy chicken adds a delightful flavor to the creamy sauce.
Spices
A blend of traditional Indian spices such as garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder will give the butter chicken its rich and aromatic taste. These spices add depth and complexity to the dish.
Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce forms the base of the creamy sauce in butter chicken. It provides a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the spices perfectly.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a key ingredient in marinating the chicken. It helps to tenderize the meat and adds a pleasant tanginess to the dish. Make sure to use plain yogurt without any added flavors.
Onion
Onions are sautéed to provide a savory and sweet base for the sauce. They add depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness that balances the spices in the dish.
Garlic
Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and a rich, earthy taste to the butter chicken. It enhances the overall flavor profile and complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Ginger
Fresh ginger adds a unique warmth and spiciness to the dish. It pairs beautifully with the other spices, enhancing the overall flavor of the butter chicken.
Butter
Butter is essential in butter chicken, as its name suggests. It adds richness, creaminess, and a velvety texture to the sauce. The butter also helps to mellow out the spices and create a harmonious balance of flavors.
Heavy cream
Heavy cream gives the butter chicken its signature creamy and luscious texture. It adds a decadent touch to the dish and helps to cut through the spiciness of the sauce.
Fresh cilantro
Fresh cilantro, also known as coriander leaves, is used as a garnish for the butter chicken. It adds a refreshing and vibrant touch to the dish, enhancing its visual appeal.
Preparation
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making Homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken.
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices. This step is crucial as it helps to infuse the chicken with flavor and tenderize the meat. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle and penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Sautéing the Onion, Garlic, and Ginger
Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a knob of butter. Once the butter has melted, add finely chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and the mixture becomes fragrant. This step forms the aromatic base of the sauce and adds depth to the overall flavor of the butter chicken.
Step 3: Adding and Cooking the Chicken
Next, add the marinated chicken to the Instant Pot and sauté for a few minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides. This helps to seal in the flavors and gives the chicken a slightly caramelized exterior. Be sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Adding the Tomato Sauce and Spices
Now it’s time to add the tomato sauce and a blend of spices to the Instant Pot. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce and spices. The tomato sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Step 5: Pressure Cooking the Chicken
Close the Instant Pot and set it to manual high-pressure cooking mode for 10 minutes. Allow the Instant Pot to come to pressure and cook the chicken until it becomes tender and juicy. The pressure cooking method ensures that the flavors are sealed in and the chicken is cooked to perfection.
Step 6: Finishing touches with Butter and Cream
Once the pressure cooking is complete, release the pressure using the quick-release method. Stir in a generous knob of butter and a splash of heavy cream to add richness and creaminess to the sauce. These final touches elevate the flavor and texture of the butter chicken, creating a truly indulgent experience.
Step 7: Garnishing with Fresh Cilantro
Before serving, garnish the butter chicken with freshly chopped cilantro. This adds a burst of freshness and a pop of vibrant green color to the dish. The cilantro also complements the flavors of the spices and adds a delightful aroma.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully made your own Homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken. Serve it over steaming basmati rice or with warm naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal. The rich and creamy sauce combined with the tender chicken and aromatic spices make this dish an absolute treat for your taste buds.
Tips and Variations
Making it Spicier or Milder
If you prefer your butter chicken spicier, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of spices or omit the chili powder altogether.
Adding Vegetables
To add more depth and nutrition to your butter chicken, you can incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the onions, garlic, and ginger before adding the chicken.
Using Different Protein
While traditional butter chicken is made with chicken, you can experiment with different proteins such as paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu for a vegetarian version. The cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly.
Making it Creamier
For an extra creamy texture, you can add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt along with the heavy cream. This will give the sauce a velvety and luxurious consistency.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken instead of chicken pieces with bones?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken for this recipe. However, keep in mind that bone-in chicken tends to be more flavorful and adds depth to the sauce. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for regular yogurt in this recipe. However, Greek yogurt tends to be thicker and tangier, so you may need to adjust the quantity according to your taste preference.
Can I use coconut milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute coconut milk for heavy cream if you prefer a dairy-free version or if you enjoy the combination of coconut and spices. Keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile of the dish slightly.
Recipe Variations
Vegetarian Butter Chicken
To make a vegetarian version of butter chicken, replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu. Follow the same steps, adjusting the cooking time for the protein you choose.
Butter Chicken with Naan Bread
Serve your homemade butter chicken with freshly baked naan bread for an authentic and satisfying meal. Naan bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly and is perfect for sopping up every last bit.
Butter Chicken Wraps
For a fun twist, use the butter chicken as a filling for wraps. Simply warm up some tortillas, spread a generous amount of butter chicken, and add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber. Roll it up and enjoy a delicious and portable meal.
Health Benefits
High in Protein
Butter chicken is a protein-rich dish, thanks to the chicken and yogurt. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as supporting a healthy immune system.
Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals
The spices used in butter chicken, such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander, are packed with vitamins and minerals. These spices not only add flavor but also contribute to the overall nutritional value of the dish.
Provides Healthy Fats
While butter and heavy cream add richness to the butter chicken, they also provide healthy fats. These fats help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and contribute to a feeling of satiety.
History and Origin
Origins in Indian Cuisine
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a popular dish that originated in the Indian state of Punjab. It was created by a chef named Kundan Lal Gujral in the 1950s. The dish was made by cooking tandoori chicken in a rich tomato-based gravy to use leftover tandoori chicken. Over the years, it gained widespread popularity and is now enjoyed both in Indian households and in restaurants around the world.
Popularity in Western Countries
Butter chicken has become a staple in many Western countries and is a beloved dish in Indian restaurants. Its creamy and flavorful sauce has won the hearts of many, making it a go-to favorite for those looking to explore the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Homemade Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that brings together the flavors of Indian spices, creamy tomato sauce, and tender chicken. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or prefer a milder version, this dish can be tailored to suit your taste. With its rich and creamy texture, it is sure to satisfy your cravings for a comforting and flavorful meal. So gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and enjoy a homemade butter chicken that is sure to impress both friends and family alike.
