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Easy Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala photo

Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala

This Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala is bursting with flavor! A creamy, spiced sauce envelops tender chicken for a comforting, exotic meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
  • 1/2 cup fat-free Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons garam masala divided
  • 2 teaspoons turmeric divided
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground garlic
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 15 ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup light coconut milk
  • 2 cups frozen peas
  • Minced cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Instant Pot
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Begin by cutting the boneless skinless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the spices.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, ground ginger, ground garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the chicken is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
  3. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
  4. Pour in the 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, remaining 1 tablespoon of garam masala, remaining 1 teaspoon of turmeric, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
  5. Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Choose the manual or pressure cook setting and set the time for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
  6. After all the pressure is released, open the lid and stir in 1 cup of light coconut milk and the 2 cups of frozen peas. Let it cook on sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through and the sauce is creamy.
  7. Spoon the Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala into bowls and garnish with minced cilantro. Serve with rice or naan for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Don't skip the marination step; it's crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking the chicken; 10 minutes on high pressure is perfect.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste; spices can vary in strength depending on freshness.