How to Make Instant Pot® Butter Chicken from Frozen - A Step-by-Step Guide

Butter chicken is a beloved Indian dish known for its rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, and tender, flavorful chicken. Traditionally, this dish requires marinating the chicken and simmering it for hours to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. However, with the help of the Instant Pot®, you can make this delicious dish in a fraction of the time, even from frozen chicken!

This recipe for Instant Pot® Butter Chicken from Frozen is a game-changer for busy weeknights or whenever you'r...

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Ingredients

  • 6 tablespoons salted butter, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ⅓ cup diced onion
  • 9 ounces frozen cubed chicken
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 tablespoon tandoori seasoning
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, or to taste

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Additional Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
  • Servings: 3
  • Yield: 3 servings

  • Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot®), select Saute function, and add butter. Add onion and garlic to melted butter; saute until fragrant, 3 to 5 minutes. Add frozen chicken, then pour tomato sauce on top. Hit Cancel.
  • Close and lock the lid. Select high pressure according to manufacturer's instructions; set timer for 30 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.
  • Release pressure using the natural-release method according to manufacturer's instructions, for 15 minutes. Then use the quick-release method to release remaining pressure, about 5 minutes. Unlock and remove the lid.
  • Add whipping cream, tandoori seasoning, garam masala, and cayenne pepper; stir to combine. Serve immediately garnished with cilantro.
  • Nutrition

    400 cal.

    • Total Fat: 33g
    • Saturated Fat: 20g
    • Cholesterol: 132mg
    • Sodium: 610mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 10g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3g
    • Total Sugars: 4g
    • Protein: 19g
    • Vitamin C: 12mg
    • Calcium: 72mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 474mg