30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Name: 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs ((cut into small bite-size chunks)); 4 tablespoons butter; 1 onion ((finely chopped)); 5-6 cloves garlic ((minced)); 1 tablespoon ginger ((minced or finely grated)); 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 8 oz tomato sauce ((or 1 cup tomato puree)); 2 tablespoons tomato paste ((or replace with 1/2 cup more tomato sauce)); 3/4 cup water ((or chicken broth)); 1 cup heavy cream ((can substitute with evaporated milk, coconut cream, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt)); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

February 5, 2026

•

Sheila

Homemade 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe photo

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to impress, look no further than this 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken. This rich and creamy dish is packed with flavor, and the Instant Pot makes it a breeze to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is your answer to a satisfying meal in no time.

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Why It’s My Go-To

Classic 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken dish photo

When life gets hectic, I crave comfort food that doesn’t take hours to prepare. This 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken is my go-to recipe because it combines tender chicken with a velvety sauce that’s bursting with spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings the warmth of Indian cuisine to your table without the fuss. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a perfect family meal!

What We’re Using

To create this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into small bite-size chunks, or breasts)
4 tablespoons butter
1 onion (finely chopped)
5-6 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon ginger (minced or finely grated)
1 tablespoon EACH (garam masala, smoked paprika, curry powder)
1 teaspoon EACH (ground cumin, salt)
8 oz (1 cup) can tomato sauce (or 1 cup tomato puree)
2 tablespoons tomato paste (or replace with 1/2 cup more tomato sauce)
3/4 cup water (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream (can substitute with evaporated milk, coconut cream, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Must-Have Equipment

To whip up this dish, you’ll need a few essential tools:

Instant Pot – The star of the show! It will help you cook the chicken quickly and evenly.
Cutting board – For chopping the chicken and vegetables safely.
Knife – A good chef’s knife makes prep work easier.
Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key for the spices and liquids.
Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the ingredients in the Instant Pot.

Mastering 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken: How-To

Easy 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken food shot

Ready to dive into the cooking process? Follow these simple steps to create your 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken masterpiece!

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting your chicken thighs (or breasts) into bite-sized chunks. This will help them cook evenly and absorb all those amazing flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Add the garam masala, smoked paprika, curry powder, ground cumin, and salt to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices, cooking for another minute to release their essential oils.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Now it’s time to introduce the chicken to the flavor party! Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the pot, and stir to combine with the onion and spices.

Step 5: Tomato Time

Pour in the can of tomato sauce and tomato paste (or the additional sauce if you’re substituting). Add the water or chicken broth to help create a delicious sauce. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken is well-coated.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Make sure the valve is set to sealing. Once the timer goes off, do a quick release by carefully turning the valve to venting.

Step 7: Creamy Finish

After the pressure has fully released, remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream (or your chosen substitute). This will give your butter chicken that rich and creamy texture we all love.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of freshness. Serve your delicious 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken over rice or with warm naan bread for a complete meal!

Dietary Customizations

Delicious 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken plate image

This recipe is flexible and can easily accommodate various dietary needs:

Gluten-Free: Ensure your spices and sauces are gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt.
Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it for later in the week.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the butter chicken simmer on the sauté setting for a few extra minutes after adding the cream.
Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, like peas or bell peppers, for added nutrition.
Using chicken thighs ensures the meat stays tender and juicy, but chicken breasts will work just as well!

Freezer-Friendly Notes

You can easily freeze any leftovers or make this dish ahead of time:

Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! If using frozen chicken, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Instead of 8 minutes, set the Instant Pot to 10-12 minutes for frozen chunks. Just ensure the chicken is fully cooked through before serving.

What should I serve with butter chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even a simple green salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply sauté the onions, garlic, and spices in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream before serving.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a milder butter chicken, reduce the amount of curry powder and garam masala. You can also omit the red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. For more heat, add more spices or a dash of hot sauce.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the steps and tips for creating the perfect 30 Minute Instant Pot Butter Chicken, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is not only quick and easy but also brings the rich flavors of India right to your kitchen. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and share with your loved ones for a meal that’s sure to become a favorite!