Instant Pot Butter Chicken: A Quick and Creamy Delight for Busy Weeknights

on
Butter chicken is the one meal that has the power to elevate a simple weeknight evening into a delicious gourmet experience. But who has time to stand over the stove and stir and boil after a long day at work? Presenting the Instant Pot—a real game-changer for time-pressed professionals who yearn for a hassle-free, fast, and creamy Indian staple. Let's get started on this easy recipe so you can quickly enjoy a delicious and creamy butter chicken.




The Instant Pot: The Perfect Weeknight Companion

When you’re juggling work, errands, and the never-ending to-do list, the Instant Pot is like a superhero that swoops in to save dinner time. With its magic, you can cut down the cooking time for Butter Chicken drastically, while still achieving that creamy, luxurious texture and rich flavor you love. It’s like having a restaurant experience in the comfort of your home, minus the long wait!

 Ever tried making Butter Chicken after a marathon workday and ended up with a kitchen that looks like a curry bomb exploded? With the Instant Pot, you can avoid the chaos and still get a dish that tastes like you’ve spent hours perfecting it!

Instant Pot Butter Chicken Recipe

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making this quick Butter Chicken recipe that’s bound to become your weeknight go-to.

Ingredients:

  • Boneless, thinly sliced chicken thighs, one pound
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch ginger, minced
  • Half a cup of heavy cream, or, for a plant-based alternative, coconut cream.
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Turn on the Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add butter, allowing it to melt before adding the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion turns golden brown. Saute the ginger and garlic together for a further minute.

  2. Build the Flavor Base: Add the tomato puree, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, salt, and chili powder. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to intensify the flavors after giving it a thorough swirl to include the spices.

  3. Add the Chicken: Toss in the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated with the spice mixture. Stir well after adding 1/2 cup of water.

  4. Pressure Cook: Put the lid on tight and program the Instant Pot for 8 minutes on high-pressure cooking. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release.

  5. Creamy Finish: Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes on the sauté setting to thicken the sauce slightly.

  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or basmati rice. Voilà—your Instant Pot Butter Chicken is ready to impress!



“Why did the chicken cross the road? Naturally, to dive into a bowl of lusciously smooth and buttery butter!

Tips for the Perfect Butter Chicken

Achieving the ideal creamy texture and rich flavor in your Butter Chicken is all about balance and a few handy tips:

  • Don’t skimp on the butter: It’s called Butter Chicken for a reason! The butter adds depth and richness to the dish.
  • Use heavy cream or coconut cream: This gives the sauce its signature velvety texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a mix of both for a unique twist.
  • Let the sauce simmer post-pressure cook: This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken to the perfect consistency.


Wrapping It Up

There you have it—an Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe that’s quick, creamy, and absolutely perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that won’t have you slaving away in the kitchen. Give it a try, and who knows? You might just start a new weeknight tradition!

Caution: This Butter Chicken recipe has the potential to turn your kitchen into an impromptu dance party. 

By incorporating these simple steps and tips, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also a breeze to make. Happy cooking! 

Healthy Benefits of Butter Chicken

While Butter Chicken is often seen as a rich and indulgent dish, it can also be part of a balanced diet when made with a few mindful choices. Protein is necessary to synthesize energy and repair muscles, and lean chicken thighs are an excellent supply of this macronutrient. The tomato puree used in the sauce is rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which supports heart health. You may add a distinct flavor and cut down on saturated fat by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream.  Plus, the array of spices in Butter Chicken—like turmeric, cumin, and ginger—brings anti-inflammatory benefits, making this dish not only delicious but also nourishing.

Thank you for reading!

Comments

Post a Comment