If you’re craving a restaurant-style Indian dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, this Easy Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala is your ultimate weeknight savior. With tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, this dish delivers the comforting warmth of Indian cuisine without the long cooking time. Using the Instant Pot means you get perfectly cooked chicken and deeply developed flavors in a fraction of the time it takes on the stovetop.
What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of simplicity and authenticity. The fragrant blend of spices—garam masala, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika—infuses every bite with irresistible aroma. The silky sauce, made with crushed tomatoes and cream, wraps the chicken in a luscious coating that pairs beautifully with rice or naan. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned home chef, this Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala is an easy way to impress your family and guests with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and pro tips that make this recipe foolproof, flavorful, and perfect for cozy dinners any night of the week.
Chicken Tikka Masala Ingredients
Creating the perfect Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala starts with gathering the right ingredients. This recipe divides the components into two sections: the chicken marinade and the sauce base.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
This ingredient combination guarantees a balanced flavor profile—creamy, spicy, and aromatic. The yogurt-based marinade keeps the chicken tender, while the spice-laden sauce develops deep flavor during pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Directions Step-by-Step
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and all spices for the marinade. Add the chicken pieces, coating them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté.” Melt the butter or ghee, then add onions. Cook until translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Tomatoes
Add marinated chicken to the pot, stirring to coat in the spice mixture. Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir. Cancel the “Sauté” mode.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Lock the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Switch to “Sauté” again and simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken. Adjust salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Serve with steamed basmati rice or warm naan for an authentic Indian dining experience.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
To ensure your Chicken Tikka Masala turns out restaurant-quality every time, here are key tips:
- Marination matters – Allowing the chicken to rest in the spiced yogurt mixture enhances tenderness and infuses deep flavor.
- Use thighs instead of breasts – Chicken thighs remain juicier under pressure cooking.
- Deglaze properly – After sautéing onions and spices, add a splash of water to scrape off brown bits to prevent a burn notice.
- Cream choice – Heavy cream gives a rich texture, but coconut cream offers a delicious dairy-free alternative.
- Spice balance – Adjust chili powder to match your heat preference without losing the authentic depth.
For extra smoky flavor, stir in a touch of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tikka Masala
The beauty of Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala lies in its versatility. Traditionally served with basmati rice, it also pairs wonderfully with various sides:
- Garlic Naan or Roti – Ideal for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Cucumber Raita – A cooling yogurt-based dip that complements the spice.
- Steamed or Jeera Rice – Adds a fragrant touch to every bite.
- Grilled Vegetables – Enhance color and nutrition for a balanced meal.
- Lentil Dal or Chickpea Curry – Create a complete Indian feast by serving multiple curries together.
Add a wedge of lemon and a sprinkle of cilantro before serving to elevate the presentation and flavor. This dish also reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
Storing and Reheating Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Proper storage keeps your Chicken Tikka Masala tasting fresh and flavorful:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave gently, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day. Serve it with fresh rice or naan for a quick, satisfying meal.
