Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala

If you haven’t tried many instant pot recipes yet, this is a perfect one to start with! For a super fast meal that packs a ton of flavors, the instant pot can deliver every time. Try our Easy Instant Pot Gumbo or our Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff too! I am absolutely in love with Indian food. The herbs and spices of Indian cuisine have this sweet and savory blend that is just so comforting to me. Some people crave sweets, but I crave this chicken tikka masala recipe ALL THE TIME. I love making it in the Instant Pot. I only have one pot to clean up at the end of dinner, but it tastes like I was in the kitchen making a big mess all day.

Differences from Authentic Tikka Masala

If you are looking for perfectly-authentic-in-every-way Chicken Tikka Masala, this recipe might not be the one. However, if you are looking for perfectly-delicious-easy-to-make Chicken Tikka Masala then you are in the right place! I wanted to share this recipe because it is easy, and uses methods and ingredients that are accessible to most people. That being said, there are a few ways you can up the authenticity if you are interested! Traditionally, the chicken would be cooked in a tandoori oven before simmering in the sauce. You can recreate this at home by searing the chicken on the grill before adding it to the Instant Pot. You can also swap out full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream to make it more authentic. You can also serve it with Raita (pictured below).

The Difference Between Butter Chicken and Chicken Masala

If you’ve had butter chicken before, this recipe will taste very similar; however there are some slight differences. Butter chicken has a less intense tomato flavor with more of a creamy texture. And this chicken tikka masala is a bit less creamy but boasts a richer tomato base in the sauce.

What to Serve with Tikka Masala

A simple side of steamed rice and your choice of vegetables pair perfectly with this sweet and savory dish. But you could also make a side of basmati rice, or cauliflower rice. Other sides to try include:

Coconut RiceOven Roasted Green BeansEasy Yellow RiceCurried Chick PeasEasy Garden Vegetable Rice

Other Instant Pot Recipes To Try

The Instant Pot is one of our favorite kitchen tools. Dinner can be on the table so much faster, without sacrificing taste. Try some of our other favorite Instant Pot recipes!

Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala