If you’ve been craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s both rich in flavor and quick to prepare, look no further than this Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala! This vibrant dish is a staple in Indian cuisine, boasting tender pieces of chicken simmered in a spiced, creamy tomato sauce. By using a pressure cooker, you can achieve tender, juicy chicken and a depth of flavor that rivals slow-cooked versions in a fraction of the time!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of spices creates a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a delight for the senses. Here are a few reasons you’ll want to keep this recipe on rotation:

Quick Cooking Time: The pressure cooker cuts down the cooking time significantly, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in about 30 minutes!
Flavorful and Versatile: The rich, spiced sauce pairs beautifully with naan, basmati rice, or even quinoa, making it adaptable for different dietary preferences.
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prepping, as it stores well in the fridge or freezer and tastes even better the next day!
Kid-Friendly: With its creamy texture and mild spices, this dish is usually a hit with kids and adults alike.

What to Buy

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating your Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you will need:

1.25 to 1.50 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
6 ounces plain Greek yogurt (0% fat recommended)
2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced or finely pressed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons garam masala
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon ground ginger
2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
1 small sweet Vidalia onion, diced small
½ cup unsalted butter
4 to 5 cloves garlic, minced or finely pressed
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce or tomato puree
2 teaspoons garam masala
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
½ cup cream or half-and-half (substitute with dairy-free milk if desired)
About ¼ cup finely minced fresh cilantro, divided for garnishing
Naan, basmati rice, or other sides for serving

Must-Have Equipment

Make sure you have the right tools for the job. Here are the essential pieces of equipment needed to make this dish:

Pressure Cooker: A reliable pressure cooker (electric or stovetop) is essential for this recipe.
Cutting Board: For chopping your chicken and vegetables efficiently.
Knife: A sharp knife will make prep work easier.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring ingredients.
Serving Spoon: To serve your delicious Chicken Tikka Masala!

How to Prepare Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Now, let’s get to the fun part: cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, garam masala, ground cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, and ground ginger. Mix well until the chicken is thoroughly coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Turn your pressure cooker to the sauté setting and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Butter

Add the minced garlic and unsalted butter to the onions. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken mixture to the pressure cooker and stir well to combine with the onion and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown slightly.

Step 5: Add Tomato Sauce and Spices

Pour in the tomato sauce or puree, along with garam masala, ground coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, kosher salt, ground ginger, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Seal the pressure cooker lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Stir in Cream

Once the pressure has been fully released, open the lid and stir in the cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve your Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala hot with naan, basmati rice, or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Substitutions by Category

Sometimes you might not have all the ingredients on hand, and that’s perfectly okay! Here are some substitutions you can consider:

Protein: Replace chicken with bite-sized pieces of tofu, chickpeas, or paneer for a vegetarian option.
Dairy: Use coconut cream or any plant-based milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
Spices: If you don’t have garam masala, a mix of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon can be a suitable substitute.
Tomato Base: You can use crushed tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for a chunkier texture.

Pro Perspective

This Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is a game-changer in the kitchen. The pressure cooker not only speeds up cooking time but also locks in moisture, resulting in incredibly tender chicken. The use of yogurt in the marinade adds a delightful tanginess to the dish, while the spice blend creates a well-rounded flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spice levels to suit your palate. This dish is flexible, just like your cooking style!

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare but possible), here are some tips for storing your Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the chicken tikka masala in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breast, but you will need to increase the cooking time by about 2-3 minutes. Make sure to cut the chicken into smaller pieces for even cooking.

What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

This dish pairs wonderfully with naan, basmati rice, or even quinoa. You can also serve it with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken a day ahead, and the flavors will deepen. Cook it the next day for a quick and delicious dinner!

Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?

The level of spice can be adjusted based on your preference. The recipe includes cayenne pepper as an optional ingredient, so you can control the heat. Feel free to omit it for a milder dish!

Desserts to Finish

After enjoying a delightful meal of Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala, consider treating yourself to one of these delicious desserts:

Gulab Jamun: Soft, syrupy balls made from milk solids.
Kheer: A creamy rice pudding flavored with cardamom and topped with nuts.
Mango Lassi: A refreshing yogurt drink that perfectly complements spicy dishes.
Burfi: A sweet confection made with condensed milk and flavored with nuts and spices.

That’s a Wrap

This Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is sure to become a favorite in your household. Not only is it easy to prepare, but the rich flavors and creamy sauce will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to treat yourself on a busy weeknight, this recipe is your ticket to a satisfying and delicious meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t forget to savor every bite!

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