Chicken Tikka Masala {Instant Pot}

Here is a great recipe for your Instant Pot for these cooler fall days. This dish was such a big hit in my family that the 13-year old took two big servings, and then placed a few grains of rice on her plate with one small piece of chicken. I inquired and she said "I'm so full but it's SO good. I don't want to stop eating!" That, my friends, is a ringing endorsement and one you should take seriously.

These kind of dishes are just made for the IP. I think pressure cooking helps intensify the spices - and it comes through here in a super flavorful combination. I've always thought this was a traditional Indian dish - but it turns out it was "invented" in a London curry house! No matter, we're just thankful someone invented it.

This is a simplified recipe; most chicken tikka masala recipes call for marinating the chicken in a yogurt before cooking. Here we just add it in with the tomatoes and the delightful onion, garlic and spice mixture. (You should be able to find garam masala in your grocery store spice aisle.)

I hope you'll try this soon - and I hope you get the same reaction I did from your family!

Chicken Tikka Masala {Instant Pot}

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
1 tsp. coconut oil
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp. ginger, grated
2 Tbsp. garam masala
2 tsp. paprika
2 tsp. salt
28 oz canned fire roasted diced tomatoes
3/4 cup canned coconut milk
1/3 cup cilantro, chopped

Turn the Instant Pot on Saute mode. Add the coconut oil and let melt. Once melted add the onion, garlic, ginger, garam masala, paprika, and salt. Cook for 4-5 minutes until onions have softened. Press cancel to turn off the Saute mode. Add the tomatoes and scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. Stir in the chicken.

Close and secure the lid and set it to manual for 15 minutes. After cooking, let rest for 5 minutes, then release the pressure.

Carefully open and stir in the coconut milk. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Stir in the cilantro or use it as a garnish.