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Speedy Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala 25 mins

Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala

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Enjoy a creamy, flavorful Chicken Tikka Masala in a fraction of the time with this Instant Pot recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers authentic taste with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 2 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 (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Add olive oil.
  2. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
  5. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and stir to coat them with the spices.
  6. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine.
  7. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing.
  8. Cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes.
  9. Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes (this is a quick natural release), then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
  10. Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream.
  11. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spice.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan bread.

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