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Amazing Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala 8 Ways

Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala

Whip up a delicious and quick Chicken Tikka Masala in your Instant Pot with this easy recipe. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this dish brings your favorite Indian flavors to your table in no time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  2. Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and add olive oil.
  3. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute.
  6. Add crushed tomatoes and chicken to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
  7. Secure the lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing’.
  8. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ mode and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
  9. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
  10. Stir in the heavy cream. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  11. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For a milder flavor, omit the cayenne pepper.
  • If you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce may be thinner.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan bread.

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