Our Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a succulent blend of boneless chicken thighs, aromatic spices, and creamy tomato goodness, all prepared effortlessly in your trusty Instant Pot. We’ve cracked the code to create a restaurant-quality dish that won’t break the bank, tailored for busy individuals craving a taste of luxury without compromising their health or budget. This recipe is a harmonious symphony of flavors, featuring budget-friendly ingredients, healthy swaps like Greek yogurt for cream, and a seamless preparation process that guarantees a delicious, stress-free dining experience.
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Calories: 651kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 50g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 21g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 212mg | Sodium: 847mg | Potassium: 1199mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1367IU | Vitamin C: 82mg | Calcium: 110mg | Iron: 3mg
Why You’ll Enjoy This Chicken Meal Prep:
- Time-Saving Magic: Let’s face it – time is not always on our side. That’s why the Instant Pot is our superhero in this recipe! With just a few button clicks, you’ll have a mouthwatering Indian Butter Chicken ready to roll. Perfect for those who want the taste without the kitchen marathon.
- Budget-Friendly Bliss: We get it; you want gourmet without draining your wallet. Our recipe is a budget-friendly masterpiece, utilizing simple and accessible ingredients. No need for a treasure map to find these items at your local grocery store!
- Healthy and Hearty: Staying on the healthy track is a breeze with our recipe. We’ve swapped out heavy ingredients for a creamy blend of tomato sauce, spices, and a touch of heavy cream. It’s comfort food without the guilt – perfect for keeping that New Year’s resolution intact!
- Flavor Explosion: Brace your taste buds for an explosion of flavors! The combination of garlic, ginger, curry powder, and turmeric is an infusion of spices, promising an instant ticket to flavor town.
Ingredient Breakdown:
- Boneless Chicken Thighs: Tender, juicy, and budget-friendly, chicken thighs are the perfect protein base for our dish. They absorb the rich flavors of the spices and sauces, creating a hearty and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
- White Onions: Onions form the flavor foundation of countless dishes, and here they add a sweet and savory kick. Besides enhancing taste, they’re cost-effective and readily available, making them a go-to for any budget-friendly meal.
- Garlic: These aromatic powerhouses are the dynamic duo that injects bold, authentic flavors into the dish. Not only do they elevate taste, but they also bring their health benefits, known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Tomato Paste: Tomatoes add a luscious texture and a touch of sweetness to our dish. Tomato paste provides depth, while tomato sauce adds a saucy consistency. These pantry staples are not just affordable but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
- Water: It might seem simple, but water plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. It helps form the base for the sauce, allowing all the spices to meld together, resulting in a harmonious and budget-friendly liquid gold.
- Curry Powder and Turmeric Powder: The heart of Indian cuisine! These spices bring warmth and depth to the dish. Curry powder combines a mix of flavorful spices, while turmeric adds a vibrant color and anti-inflammatory properties. Using them in moderation keeps the dish healthy and wallet-friendly.
- Heavy Cream: Here’s the secret to the luxurious creaminess without sacrificing health. A modest amount of heavy cream adds richness to the sauce, making it indulgent without going overboard. It’s the magic touch that transforms the dish into a comforting delight.
- Cilantro: Fresh herbs like cilantro add a burst of freshness, balancing the rich flavors. They’re not just a pretty garnish; they bring a unique flavor profile that complements the spices. Cilantro is inexpensive, widely available, and elevates the dish to a whole new level.
- Roasted Cauliflower: Cauliflower, the versatile superstar! It’s budget-friendly, low in calories, and takes on the flavors of our spice mix beautifully. Roasting it enhances its natural sweetness and adds a satisfying crunch to the meal.
- Garlic Powder , Paprika , Salt : This trio of seasonings turns simple cauliflower into a flavor-packed side. It’s a cost-effective way to add depth and complexity to your meal without resorting to unhealthy options.
- Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil ensures the cauliflower roasts to perfection, enhancing its nutty flavor. It also brings healthy monounsaturated fats to the table, contributing to a well-rounded and nutritious dish.
How to Meal Prep Instant Pot Butter Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Meanwhile, fire up the Instant Pot in sauté mode and add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the onions, garlic, and ginger, and let them dance for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften. Add the chicken and give it a little tanning session for another 2-3 minutes.
- Time to amp up the flavor game! Add tomato paste, water, tomato sauce, curry powder, and turmeric powder. Give it a good stir, close the Instant Pot lid, and set the valve to sealing. While the magic happens, spread your cauliflower on a sheet pan, sprinkle it with garlic powder, paprika, and salt, and let it roast for 12-15 minutes.
- After the chicken cooks, release the pressure carefully. Switch back to sauté mode, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the cilantro. Stir and let the liquid simmer until it thickens (around 5 minutes).
- Plate up your Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken, alongside the golden-roasted cauliflower. Dive in and enjoy the blissful union of flavors. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or warm naan bread for a complete experience.
Reference the recipe card below for detailed instructions.
Meal Prep Tips
- Batch Cooking Bliss: Make a larger quantity of the Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken to enjoy throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, and the flavors even have time to deepen over time.
- Freeze for Future Feasts: Portion out leftovers into freezer-friendly containers for a quick and satisfying meal on busy days. Label and date each container to keep track of your delicious frozen treasures.
- Protein Swaps: Experiment with protein alternatives such as boneless chicken breasts, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. It’s a fantastic way to cater to different dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
- Veggie Power: Amp up the veggie content by adding spinach, peas, or bell peppers during the cooking process. This not only boosts the nutritional profile but also adds color and texture to your meal.
- Healthier Cream Options: For a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk. These alternatives bring a creamy texture without compromising on flavor, and they’re often healthier options.
- Pairing Perfection: Pair the Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast. A cucumber and tomato salad with a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of yogurt is a perfect match.
- Make it a Wrap: Transform your Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken into wraps or burritos with whole-grain tortillas. Add some fresh greens, and you’ve got a portable, delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought curry powder, or should I make my own blend?
Either option works! Store-bought curry powder is convenient and adds a wonderful depth of flavor. If you prefer a personalized touch, feel free to create your own blend with cumin, coriander, turmeric, and other spices.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics in a pan, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through.
Can I use frozen cauliflower for the roasted cauliflower side?
While fresh cauliflower is recommended for optimal texture, you can use frozen cauliflower if that’s what you have. Just be aware that frozen cauliflower may release more water during roasting.
Instant Pot Butter Chicken with Roasted Cauliflower
Equipment
Ingredients
Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken
Roasted Cauliflower
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition