There’s something truly comforting about the rich, velvety texture of a creamy sauce enveloping tender chicken, especially when that sauce comes alive with the bold spices of Indian cuisine. Picture this: a busy weeknight after a long day, I found myself cranking up my Instant Pot, yearning for a delicious meal but not wanting to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when I decided to create my own take on the classic Indian Butter Chicken, but with a keto twist.
As I mixed fragrant spices like garam masala and turmeric, I was taken back to my favorite Indian restaurant, where the aroma wafted through the air as I savored my dish. This recipe not only satisfies my cravings for Indian flavors, but it also fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. It’s a delightful balance of taste and health, making it the ideal solution for anyone tired of the mundane fast food routine.
In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike, transforming your weeknight dinners into a flavorful feast! Join me and discover how easy and delicious homemade Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken can be!
Why is Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken the Best?
Quick Prep Time: In just 20 minutes, you can savor a rich dish that rivals any restaurant meal.
Flavor Explosion: The vibrant spices—like garam masala and turmeric—create a symphony of taste that awakens your senses.
Keto-Friendly: This recipe doesn’t just taste good; it aligns seamlessly with your low-carb lifestyle.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your family and friends with a dish that’s both comforting and exotic, making every dinner feel like a special occasion.
Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and easy steps, cooking becomes a joy, not a chore. If you’re looking for more easy meals, check out my other Instant Pot recipes for quick wins!
Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – A tender choice that retains moisture and flavor in the cream sauce.
• Fine Himalayan pink salt – Enhances the natural flavors; opt for ¾ teaspoon for seasoning.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the dish.
For the Sauce
• Butter or ghee – Provides a rich, creamy base; use ghee for a dairy-free option.
• Garlic cloves – Minced for a fragrant kick that complements the spices.
• Small onion – Chopped to add sweetness and depth to the cream sauce.
• Jalapeño pepper – Finely chopped for a touch of heat; seed it for less spice.
For the Seasoning
• Garam masala – A key ingredient that infuses this dish with traditional Indian flavors; don’t skip this!
• Fresh ginger – Minced for a zesty burst that brightens the sauce.
• Ground cumin – Adds a warm, earthy nuance to balance the creaminess.
• Ground turmeric – Not only vibrant in color but also lends a hint of bitterness and brightness to the dish.
For the Creaminess
• Heavy cream or coconut cream – Adds richness; use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Fresh cilantro – Chopped for garnish, bringing freshness that elevates the dish.
Follow these easy-to-gather ingredients, and soon you’ll be savoring your own Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken!
How to Make Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken
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Season the Chicken: Rub the boneless chicken thighs with 1 teaspoon of fine Himalayan pink salt and black pepper. This simple step is vital for enhancing the flavors of your chicken.
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Sauté in the Instant Pot: Select Sauté on your Instant Pot. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter (or ghee) and add the minced garlic. Once fragrant, add half of the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown, turning once. Remove and repeat with the remaining chicken and 1 additional tablespoon of butter.
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Cook the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and jalapeño to the pot. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes until they become tender and aromatic. Then, mix in the garam masala, minced ginger, cumin, turmeric, and the remaining ¾ teaspoon of salt. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing those flavors to mingle beautifully.
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Pressure Cook: Return the chicken to the pot. Secure the lid and close the pressure-release valve. Set the pot to High Pressure for 10 minutes. After cooking, let it stand for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
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Add Cream and Garnish: Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream), chopped cilantro, and the last tablespoon of butter. This will give your dish that indulgent creaminess you crave.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra cilantro for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken
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Choose the Right Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicy outcome. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender and moist.
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Layer Flavors: Sautéing garlic, onion, and spices before pressure cooking enhances the depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step!
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Natural Release: Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. This ensures your chicken stays juicy and the sauce thickens nicely.
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Spice Control: Adjust the jalapeño according to your heat preference. Remove the seeds for a milder flavor without losing the warmth of Indian spices.
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Creamy Consistency: For a richer sauce, add more cream or coconut cream to achieve your desired creaminess. Just blend it in gently for a perfect finish.
These tips will elevate your Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken, ensuring a delightful dining experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can season and sauté the chicken, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, the sauce base can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the dish’s delicious quality, make sure to cool the components quickly before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the refrigerated chicken and sauce to the Instant Pot, pressure cook for 10 minutes, stir in the cream, and garnish. You’ll enjoy a delightful meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken?
Transforming your weeknight dinner into a flavorful feast is a breeze, especially when paired with the right sides!
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Fluffy Cauliflower Rice: Acts as a perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce, adding a light and satisfying element to each bite. This pairing keeps your meal low-carb while delivering comforting warmth.
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Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crunch provide a delightful contrast to the velvety chicken, balancing the rich creaminess with a pop of freshness.
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Garlic Naan Bread: Although higher in carbs, the soft, chewy naan is irresistible for those who want to indulge a little while scooping up every delicious drop of sauce.
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Side Salad with Mint Yogurt Dressing: A refreshing salad with cool mint yogurt can brighten up your meal, offering a lively flavor profile that complements the spices in the chicken.
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Spiced Lentil Dal: This hearty dish adds depth, as the earthy lentils beautifully harmonize with the aromatic spices of the butter chicken, creating a wholesome experience.
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Sweet Mango Chutney: A touch of sweetness cuts through the richness of the dish and provides a delightful contrast that brings out the flavors even more.
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Herbed Yogurt Sauce: A cool, creamy sauce can enhance each bite and temper the spices, making it an appealing addition for those who enjoy a creamier touch.
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Coconut Lassi: This refreshing drink not only complements spicy flavors but also adds a tropical twist to your dining experience, rounding out your meal delightfully.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the creamy chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. For best texture, reheat directly from frozen in the Instant Pot using sauté mode then pressure cook for 5 minutes.
Thawing: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for a quick meal. Alternatively, you can use the microwave’s defrost setting before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to maintain moisture and enjoy the luscious flavor of your Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken!
Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your dish even further!
- Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a rich, coconut flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
- Heat Level: Add more jalapeño or diced chili peppers for an extra kick, making each bite a spicy adventure!
- Herb Twists: Replace cilantro with fresh parsley or basil for a new aromatic experience that brightens the dish.
- Nutty Touch: Stir in crushed almonds or cashews to the cream sauce for an unexpected crunch and nutty taste.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or kale just before serving for added nutrition and a pop of color.
- Mango Bliss: Incorporate diced mango pieces during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet contrast against the creamy sauce.
- Zest It Up: Add a splash of fresh lime juice before serving to bring a zesty brightness that balances the creaminess.
- Curry Flavor: Enhance the dish with a tablespoon of curry paste for an even bolder, more complex flavor.
These variations will make your Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken experience even more personalized and delightful!
Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting boneless, skinless chicken thighs, look for ones that are firm and plump with no discoloration. If possible, choose organic options for better quality and taste. Chicken thighs with a slightly darker color usually have more flavor!
How should I store leftover Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken?
Very! Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating it on low heat in a skillet or in the microwave until heated through for the best results.
Can I freeze this dish?
Of course! To freeze, place portions of the chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat straight from frozen in the Instant Pot, using sauté mode to warm it up before setting it to pressure cook for 5 minutes.
What if I’ve never used an Instant Pot before? Is there anything I should watch out for?
No worries! When using an Instant Pot for the first time, ensure that the sealing ring is securely in place before cooking. After the cooking cycle, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, as it helps retain moisture. If in doubt, consult the manual for safety instructions—it’s a handy companion!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is Keto-friendly, making it suitable for low-carb diets. If you have dairy allergies, opt for coconut cream instead of heavy cream, as it gives a delightful richness without dairy. Always check that your spices and ingredients are allergen-free if you’re accommodating specific allergies.
Instant Pot Keto Indian Butter Chicken Bliss in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rub the boneless chicken thighs with 1 teaspoon of fine Himalayan pink salt and black pepper.
- Select Sauté on your Instant Pot. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter (or ghee) and add the minced garlic. Once fragrant, add half of the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown, turning once. Remove and repeat with the remaining chicken and 1 additional tablespoon of butter.
- Add the chopped onion and jalapeño to the pot. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes until they become tender and aromatic. Then, mix in the garam masala, minced ginger, cumin, turmeric, and the remaining ¾ teaspoon of salt. Cook for about 1 minute.
- Return the chicken to the pot. Secure the lid and close the pressure-release valve. Set the pot to High Pressure for 10 minutes. After cooking, let it stand for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream), chopped cilantro, and the last tablespoon of butter.