Imagine bringing the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine right into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. This Pressure Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala is your ticket to a mouthwatering meal that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Mumbai, without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving an authentic Indian feast, this recipe promises restaurant-quality flavor in a fraction of the traditional cooking time.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp tikka masala spice
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups water
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cutting chicken breast into 1-inch cubes and finely chopping the onion. Measure out all spices and liquids in advance.
- Set pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add a small amount of oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add cubed chicken to the pressure cooker and brown slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for about 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle tikka masala spice over chicken and onions, stirring to coat evenly and release aromatic flavors.
- Pour in tomato sauce and coconut milk, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Ensure chicken is well-coated with the sauce.
- Close pressure cooker lid and set to high pressure. Cook for 10-12 minutes until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- While chicken is cooking, prepare butter rice by rinsing basmati rice until water runs clear. Add rice, water, and a pinch of salt to a separate pot.
- Cook rice according to package instructions, typically 15-18 minutes, until fluffy and tender. Stir in a tablespoon of butter after cooking for extra richness.
- Once pressure cooker cycle is complete, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release remaining pressure.
- Taste chicken tikka masala and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. The sauce should be creamy and slightly thick.
- Serve hot chicken tikka masala over buttered basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro or cream if desired.
Tips
- Prep is Key: Have all ingredients measured and chopped before you start cooking to ensure a smooth, stress-free cooking experience.
- Spice Selection: Use fresh, high-quality tikka masala spice blend for the most authentic flavor. If possible, toast whole spices briefly before grinding for an extra flavor boost.
- Chicken Cutting Technique: Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and tender meat.
- Sautéing Matters: Take time to properly sauté onions and brown the chicken - these steps build deep flavor foundations for your dish.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allow a 5-minute natural pressure release to help the chicken become extra tender and let flavors meld.
- Rice Perfection: Rinse basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy, separate grains.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh cilantro, a dollop of cream, or a sprinkle of garam masala can elevate the final presentation and flavor.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
