Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner? Look no further than this Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala recipe.
You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this classic Indian dish in your trusty Instant Pot. Tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a creamy tomato sauce come together in just minutes, leaving you with a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends.
Get ready to indulge in a taste sensation like no other.
Origins
Trace the roots of this delectable Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala recipe and you’ll find yourself in the bustling streets of India, where the captivating aromas of spices permeate the air.
This dish, which has its origins in the Indian subcontinent, has earned global acclaim for its creamy tomato-based sauce and succulent chicken.
It’s said that Chicken Tikka Masala was created by chance when a British chef added tomato soup to a regular chicken tikka recipe. The outcome was an immediate success and the fusion dish soon became a popular favorite.
Now you can savor the genuine flavors of India in the comfort of your own home, thanks to the ease and convenience of cooking it in an Instant Pot.
Ingredients
You’ll need a few key components and some spices to make this mouthwatering Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala.
Here are the four essential ingredients to bring out the rich flavors of this classic Indian dish:
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Chicken: Begin with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tender and juicy bites.
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Yogurt: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices to enhance its tenderness and infuse it with delectable flavors.
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Tomato Sauce: The base of the tikka masala sauce is made with a blend of tomato sauce, garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices, providing a tangy and savory taste.
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Spices: A combination of ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and garam masala brings warmth and depth to the dish. Adjust the spice levels to your liking.
With these components, you’ll be on your way to creating a satisfying and flavorful Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala.
Instructions
Gather all your ingredients and get your Instant Pot ready.
This is how you can make a delicious Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala:
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Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and spices. Add the chicken pieces and mix thoroughly. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
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Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Put in oil and onions, sauté them until golden brown. After that, add the marinated chicken and cook for a few minutes until it starts to brown.
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Pour in the tomato puree, water, and salt. Give it a good stir. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook for 10 minutes.
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Once the cooking time is up, release the pressure manually. Open the lid and add heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
Serve hot with naan or rice.
Enjoy your homemade Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala!
Tips for Cooking
Mix the spices and herbs thoroughly, and make sure to sample the sauce before serving. This will ensure that the flavors are well-balanced and delicious. Here are some extra tips for crafting the perfect Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala:
| Tips for Cooking |
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| Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra tenderness |
| Marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes |
| Sauté the onions and garlic prior to adding the chicken for added depth of flavor |
| Cook the chicken on high pressure for 10 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked |
| Include a splash of heavy cream at the end to make the sauce rich and creamy |
Final Thoughts
To finish off your Chicken Tikka Masala, don’t forget to garnish it with fresh cilantro. This simple addition can take the flavors of the dish to the next level, providing a vibrant and aromatic touch.
The bright green cilantro leaves won’t only add eye-catching appeal, but also a refreshing taste that complements the boldness of the tikka masala sauce.
Sprinkle a generous amount of chopped cilantro on top of your chicken tikka masala just before serving to bring out the best in the dish. The herbaceous notes of cilantro will balance out the richness of the sauce and give a delightful contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use a different protein instead of chicken in this recipe. Simply substitute it with your favorite protein and then follow the recipe instructions as usual. Bon appetit!
How Long Does It Take to Cook the Chicken Tikka Masala in an Instant Pot?
It takes about 20 minutes to cook the chicken tikka masala in an Instant Pot. The pressure cooking function helps to rapidly tenderize the chicken while imparting it with all the delicious flavors.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian-Friendly by Using Tofu or Paneer Instead of Chicken?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian-friendly by using tofu or paneer instead of chicken. It will still taste delicious and be full of flavor, just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What Spices Are Typically Used in Chicken Tikka Masala?
Typically, chicken tikka masala is flavored with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and garam masala. These spices give the dish its unique and fragrant flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free by Substituting the Cream With Coconut Milk?
Yes, it is possible to make the recipe dairy-free by substituting the cream with coconut milk. It will give a slightly different flavor, but still tasty. Just ensure that the other ingredients are adjusted accordingly.
