Save A rich, aromatic chicken tikka masala made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, featuring a creamy coconut twist for a dairy-free finish. Perfectly spiced and deeply flavorful, this dish pairs beautifully with rice or naan.
This recipe has become a staple at our dinner table, combining bold Indian flavors with the convenience of the Instant Pot. The creamy coconut milk adds a lovely richness without dairy.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Marinade: 1/2 cup (120 g) plain dairy-free yogurt (coconut or almond-based), 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 2 teaspoons ground coriander, 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon salt
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons coconut oil, 1 large onion finely chopped, 4 cloves garlic minced, 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat), 1 teaspoon salt, 1 (14 oz / 400 ml) can full-fat coconut milk
- To Finish: 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped, cooked basmati rice or naan to serve
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken:
- In a large bowl combine yogurt lemon juice cumin coriander turmeric chili powder garam masala and salt. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Sauté Onions and Aromatics:
- Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add coconut oil then sauté onions for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and ginger cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare Sauce:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute. Add crushed tomatoes smoked paprika cumin garam masala cayenne (if using) and salt.
- Add Chicken:
- Add the marinated chicken (with all marinade) to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pressure Cook:
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to Manual or Pressure Cook on high for 8 minutes.
- Release Pressure:
- Once cooking is complete allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Finish Sauce:
- Open the lid and stir in the coconut milk. Set to Sauté again and simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.
Save My family loves gathering for this meal especially on busy weeknights when the Instant Pot saves us time without sacrificing flavor.
Notes
For extra char briefly broil marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet before adding to the sauce. Substitute chicken breasts if preferred but thighs yield juicier results. For a thicker sauce simmer longer after adding coconut milk.
Required Tools
Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker Large mixing bowl Knife and cutting board Wooden spoon or spatula Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains coconut (tree nut) Dairy-free when using plant-based yogurt Gluten-free if served with rice Always check labels of yogurt and coconut milk for potential cross-contamination.
Save This creamy Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala offers a quick weeknight solution packed with comforting Indian flavors and a dairy-free twist.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavors, though up to 2 hours deepens the taste further.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work, but thighs offer juicier, more tender results in this preparation.
- → What gives the sauce its creamy texture?
Full-fat coconut milk adds a rich, creamy consistency without dairy, blending seamlessly with the spices.
- → Is it possible to adjust the spice level?
Definitely. Modify the cayenne pepper amount or omit it entirely to suit your preferred heat level.
- → Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken in advance and refrigerate up to 2 hours before cooking to enhance the flavors.
- → What side dishes complement this dish best?
Steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread complement the creamy, spiced chicken beautifully.