![- Chicken: Use 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. Thighs stay juicy and tender. - Spices: Essential spices are key for flavor. You’ll need: - 2 tablespoons garam masala - 1 tablespoon ground cumin - 1 tablespoon ground coriander - 1 teaspoon turmeric powder - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon salt - Other essential ingredients: These add depth and creaminess: - 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, for marinating - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, for sautéing - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 inch ginger, grated - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1/2 cup heavy cream, for richness - Fresh cilantro for garnish, to brighten the dish These ingredients come together to make a tasty meal in your Instant Pot. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. Marinating the chicken Start by mixing yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. This mix is your marinade. Add the chicken pieces and stir well. Make sure each piece gets coated. Let this sit for at least 30 minutes. For a deeper flavor, marinate overnight. Sautéing the aromatics Next, turn on your Instant Pot and set it to Sauté mode. Once hot, pour in the vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want it soft and clear. Then, mix in minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for one more minute until fragrant. Cooking under pressure Now it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes and the marinated chicken to the pot. Pour in everything from the marinade too, and give it a gentle stir. Close the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Mixing in the cream When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes. Then, switch the valve to Venting to let out any extra steam. Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until you see a nice, creamy blend. Adjusting seasoning Take a moment to taste the dish. You might want to add more salt or spices to fit your taste. Serving suggestions Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair it with rice or naan for a complete meal. For the full recipe, check out the section above. Marination makes a big difference. I suggest marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For even richer flavor, let it sit overnight in the fridge. This allows the spices to soak in fully. Adjusting spices is key. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder. For a milder dish, reduce the chili powder and garam masala. Tasting the marinade before adding the chicken can guide you. Avoid burning by keeping an eye on the Sauté mode. Stir the onions often to prevent sticking. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat. For pressure release, let it happen naturally for about five minutes. Then, switch to Venting to let out the remaining steam. This helps keep the chicken tender and juicy. For the Full Recipe, refer to the beginning of this article. {{image_2}} Alternative proteins You can swap chicken for other proteins. Try shrimp or tofu for a new taste. Both options work well with the spices. Just adjust the cooking time. Shrimp cooks fast, while tofu needs a bit more time to soak up flavors. Dairy-free options If you need a dairy-free meal, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It adds a nice sweetness. You can also use cashew cream for a rich texture. This makes the dish creamy without dairy. Adding vegetables You can boost nutrition by adding veggies. Try bell peppers, spinach, or peas. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking. This keeps them fresh and vibrant. They add color and taste to the dish. Heat level adjustments If you like it spicy, add more chili powder. You can also toss in some fresh chopped chili. For milder flavors, reduce the chili powder. Taste your sauce as you go. This way, you can find the perfect heat for your family. For the complete recipe, visit the [Full Recipe]. After you enjoy your Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala, save the leftovers. Let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, place the chicken in airtight storage containers. This way, you keep it fresh and tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to label the containers with the date. This helps you remember when you made it. If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great choice. Divide the chicken into meal-sized portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. To enjoy later, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just remember to heat it thoroughly before serving. Enjoy your meal again with the same great flavors! For the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe link. How do I make it spicier? To add heat, increase the chili powder. You can also add diced fresh chilies. Try using cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Adjust slowly to find your perfect spice level. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breast. They are leaner than thighs, so the dish may be less rich. Adjust cooking time to ensure they stay juicy. Cook them for about 8 minutes under pressure. What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? If you lack an Instant Pot, use a slow cooker or a stovetop pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours in the slow cooker. On the stovetop, simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes. Stir often to prevent burning. Can I adjust the serving size easily? Yes, adjusting the serving size is simple. Double or halve the ingredients based on your needs. Just keep the cooking time the same for best results. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt? You can use sour cream or regular plain yogurt. Coconut yogurt is a great dairy-free option. It may change the taste a bit but will still be tasty. Are there any vegan substitutes available? Yes, you can use tofu or chickpeas as the protein. For the yogurt, use cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Adjust spices to your taste for a vegan twist on this dish. This blog post covered the main ingredients and steps for your dish, alongside tips, variations, and storage info. You learned how to marinate chicken and adjust spices. You saw how to cook under pressure and mix in cream. There are many options for ingredient swaps and flavor changes. Remember, cooking is personal. Enjoy experimenting with your own style. Use leftovers wisely and get creative with them. With what you’ve learned, I’m sure you’ll create something tasty!](https://lisadishes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/07d32fe8-c30f-44b4-a1bb-68b287073f6c-768x768.webp)
Looking for a quick, delicious family dinner? You’ve found it! Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala brings rich flavors and tender chicken to your table in no time. With simple ingredients and easy steps, even busy weeknights become a chance to enjoy a great meal. In this guide, I’ll share tips, tricks, and variations to make it just right for you and your loved ones. Let’s dive into making this tasty dish!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– Chicken: Use 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. Thighs stay juicy and tender.
– Spices: Essential spices are key for flavor. You’ll need:
– 2 tablespoons garam masala
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Other essential ingredients: These add depth and creaminess:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, for marinating
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, for sautéing
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, for richness
– Fresh cilantro for garnish, to brighten the dish
These ingredients come together to make a tasty meal in your Instant Pot. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Marinating the chicken
Start by mixing yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. This mix is your marinade. Add the chicken pieces and stir well. Make sure each piece gets coated. Let this sit for at least 30 minutes. For a deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
Sautéing the aromatics
Next, turn on your Instant Pot and set it to Sauté mode. Once hot, pour in the vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want it soft and clear. Then, mix in minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for one more minute until fragrant.
Cooking Steps
Cooking under pressure
Now it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes and the marinated chicken to the pot. Pour in everything from the marinade too, and give it a gentle stir. Close the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Mixing in the cream
When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes. Then, switch the valve to Venting to let out any extra steam. Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until you see a nice, creamy blend.
Final Touches
Adjusting seasoning
Take a moment to taste the dish. You might want to add more salt or spices to fit your taste.
Serving suggestions
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair it with rice or naan for a complete meal. For the full recipe, check out the section above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavors
Marination makes a big difference. I suggest marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For even richer flavor, let it sit overnight in the fridge. This allows the spices to soak in fully.
Adjusting spices is key. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder. For a milder dish, reduce the chili powder and garam masala. Tasting the marinade before adding the chicken can guide you.
Cooking Advice
Avoid burning by keeping an eye on the Sauté mode. Stir the onions often to prevent sticking. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat.
For pressure release, let it happen naturally for about five minutes. Then, switch to Venting to let out the remaining steam. This helps keep the chicken tender and juicy.
For the Full Recipe, refer to the beginning of this article.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Alternative proteins
You can swap chicken for other proteins. Try shrimp or tofu for a new taste. Both options work well with the spices. Just adjust the cooking time. Shrimp cooks fast, while tofu needs a bit more time to soak up flavors.
Dairy-free options
If you need a dairy-free meal, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It adds a nice sweetness. You can also use cashew cream for a rich texture. This makes the dish creamy without dairy.
Flavor Variations
Adding vegetables
You can boost nutrition by adding veggies. Try bell peppers, spinach, or peas. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking. This keeps them fresh and vibrant. They add color and taste to the dish.
Heat level adjustments
If you like it spicy, add more chili powder. You can also toss in some fresh chopped chili. For milder flavors, reduce the chili powder. Taste your sauce as you go. This way, you can find the perfect heat for your family.
For the complete recipe, visit the [Full Recipe].
Storage Info
Refrigeration
After you enjoy your Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala, save the leftovers. Let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, place the chicken in airtight storage containers. This way, you keep it fresh and tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to label the containers with the date. This helps you remember when you made it.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great choice. Divide the chicken into meal-sized portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months.
To enjoy later, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just remember to heat it thoroughly before serving. Enjoy your meal again with the same great flavors! For the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe link.
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I make it spicier?
To add heat, increase the chili powder. You can also add diced fresh chilies. Try using cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Adjust slowly to find your perfect spice level.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast. They are leaner than thighs, so the dish may be less rich. Adjust cooking time to ensure they stay juicy. Cook them for about 8 minutes under pressure.
Cooking Questions
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
If you lack an Instant Pot, use a slow cooker or a stovetop pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours in the slow cooker. On the stovetop, simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes. Stir often to prevent burning.
Can I adjust the serving size easily?
Yes, adjusting the serving size is simple. Double or halve the ingredients based on your needs. Just keep the cooking time the same for best results.
Ingredient Substitutions
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You can use sour cream or regular plain yogurt. Coconut yogurt is a great dairy-free option. It may change the taste a bit but will still be tasty.
Are there any vegan substitutes available?
Yes, you can use tofu or chickpeas as the protein. For the yogurt, use cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Adjust spices to your taste for a vegan twist on this dish.
This blog post covered the main ingredients and steps for your dish, alongside tips, variations, and storage info. You learned how to marinate chicken and adjust spices. You saw how to cook under pressure and mix in cream. There are many options for ingredient swaps and flavor changes. Remember, cooking is personal. Enjoy experimenting with your own style. Use leftovers wisely and get creative with them. With what you’ve learned, I’m sure you’ll create something tasty!
![- Chicken: Use 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. Thighs stay juicy and tender. - Spices: Essential spices are key for flavor. You’ll need: - 2 tablespoons garam masala - 1 tablespoon ground cumin - 1 tablespoon ground coriander - 1 teaspoon turmeric powder - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon salt - Other essential ingredients: These add depth and creaminess: - 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, for marinating - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, for sautéing - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 inch ginger, grated - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1/2 cup heavy cream, for richness - Fresh cilantro for garnish, to brighten the dish These ingredients come together to make a tasty meal in your Instant Pot. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. Marinating the chicken Start by mixing yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. This mix is your marinade. Add the chicken pieces and stir well. Make sure each piece gets coated. Let this sit for at least 30 minutes. For a deeper flavor, marinate overnight. Sautéing the aromatics Next, turn on your Instant Pot and set it to Sauté mode. Once hot, pour in the vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want it soft and clear. Then, mix in minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for one more minute until fragrant. Cooking under pressure Now it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes and the marinated chicken to the pot. Pour in everything from the marinade too, and give it a gentle stir. Close the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Mixing in the cream When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes. Then, switch the valve to Venting to let out any extra steam. Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until you see a nice, creamy blend. Adjusting seasoning Take a moment to taste the dish. You might want to add more salt or spices to fit your taste. Serving suggestions Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair it with rice or naan for a complete meal. For the full recipe, check out the section above. Marination makes a big difference. I suggest marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For even richer flavor, let it sit overnight in the fridge. This allows the spices to soak in fully. Adjusting spices is key. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder. For a milder dish, reduce the chili powder and garam masala. Tasting the marinade before adding the chicken can guide you. Avoid burning by keeping an eye on the Sauté mode. Stir the onions often to prevent sticking. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat. For pressure release, let it happen naturally for about five minutes. Then, switch to Venting to let out the remaining steam. This helps keep the chicken tender and juicy. For the Full Recipe, refer to the beginning of this article. {{image_2}} Alternative proteins You can swap chicken for other proteins. Try shrimp or tofu for a new taste. Both options work well with the spices. Just adjust the cooking time. Shrimp cooks fast, while tofu needs a bit more time to soak up flavors. Dairy-free options If you need a dairy-free meal, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It adds a nice sweetness. You can also use cashew cream for a rich texture. This makes the dish creamy without dairy. Adding vegetables You can boost nutrition by adding veggies. Try bell peppers, spinach, or peas. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking. This keeps them fresh and vibrant. They add color and taste to the dish. Heat level adjustments If you like it spicy, add more chili powder. You can also toss in some fresh chopped chili. For milder flavors, reduce the chili powder. Taste your sauce as you go. This way, you can find the perfect heat for your family. For the complete recipe, visit the [Full Recipe]. After you enjoy your Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala, save the leftovers. Let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, place the chicken in airtight storage containers. This way, you keep it fresh and tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to label the containers with the date. This helps you remember when you made it. If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great choice. Divide the chicken into meal-sized portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. To enjoy later, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just remember to heat it thoroughly before serving. Enjoy your meal again with the same great flavors! For the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe link. How do I make it spicier? To add heat, increase the chili powder. You can also add diced fresh chilies. Try using cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Adjust slowly to find your perfect spice level. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breast. They are leaner than thighs, so the dish may be less rich. Adjust cooking time to ensure they stay juicy. Cook them for about 8 minutes under pressure. What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? If you lack an Instant Pot, use a slow cooker or a stovetop pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours in the slow cooker. On the stovetop, simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes. Stir often to prevent burning. Can I adjust the serving size easily? Yes, adjusting the serving size is simple. Double or halve the ingredients based on your needs. Just keep the cooking time the same for best results. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt? You can use sour cream or regular plain yogurt. Coconut yogurt is a great dairy-free option. It may change the taste a bit but will still be tasty. Are there any vegan substitutes available? Yes, you can use tofu or chickpeas as the protein. For the yogurt, use cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Adjust spices to your taste for a vegan twist on this dish. This blog post covered the main ingredients and steps for your dish, alongside tips, variations, and storage info. You learned how to marinate chicken and adjust spices. You saw how to cook under pressure and mix in cream. There are many options for ingredient swaps and flavor changes. Remember, cooking is personal. Enjoy experimenting with your own style. Use leftovers wisely and get creative with them. With what you’ve learned, I’m sure you’ll create something tasty!](https://lisadishes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/07d32fe8-c30f-44b4-a1bb-68b287073f6c-250x250.webp)
