Butter chicken, also known as "murgh makhani," is a beloved Indian dish known for its rich, velvety tomato-based curry and tender chunks of chicken. The good news? With the Instant Pot, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home in just a fraction of the time—without sacrificing flavor. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also perfect for beginners looking to elevate their cooking game.
Whether you're craving something indulgent for a weeknight dinner or planning a special meal for friends and family, this Instant Pot butter chicken will hit the spot!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice tolerance)
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 (14oz/400g) can of tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for dairy-free)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt, to taste
For Garnish and Serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Steamed basmati rice or naan bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Combine all the marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Add the chicken pieces and toss until thoroughly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics in the Instant Pot
- Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" mode. Once hot, add the butter and allow it to melt.
- Add the chopped onions and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Base
- Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to toast the spices, releasing their aroma.
- Pour in the tomato puree, stirring well to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Chicken
- Add the marinated chicken (along with any marinade leftovers) to the Instant Pot. Mix everything together.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the steam release valve to the sealing position.
- Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" mode on HIGH for 7 minutes.
- Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully do a quick release to fully depressurize.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream
- After releasing the pressure, switch the Instant Pot back to "Sauté" mode.
- Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and sugar, adjusting the seasoning as needed with salt. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and luscious.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Turn off the Instant Pot and garnish the butter chicken with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot over steamed basmati rice or with soft, fluffy naan bread.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Choice: While chicken thighs give a juicier result, chicken breasts also work if you prefer leaner meat.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder and cayenne to control how mild or spicy the dish turns out.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent the cream from curdling.
- Vegan-Friendly Substitute: Replace the chicken with diced tofu or chickpeas, use coconut yogurt for the marinade, and coconut milk for the sauce.
Variations to Try
- Cashew Butter Chicken: Blend a handful of soaked cashews into the sauce for added creaminess.
- Spinach Twist: Toss in a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the final simmering step for a boost of greens.
- Grilled Chicken: Grill the marinated chicken pieces before adding them to the Instant Pot for a smoky flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Instant Pot butter chicken is everything you want in a home-cooked meal—comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy. The combination of tender chicken and a creamy, spiced sauce makes it an irresistible dish that you’ll come back to time and time again. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients or hours of simmering.
Make this recipe your own by adding your personal touch, and get ready to enjoy a warm, satisfying plate of butter chicken with your loved ones!
إرسال تعليق