Image Source from jmauty

Instant Pot Butter Chicken with Saffron Rice: A Delightful Fusion of Flavours

Butter chicken, or murgh makhani, is a classic dish that hails from India, known for its rich and creamy tomato sauce and tender pieces of chicken. When prepared using an Instant Pot, this beloved recipe becomes even more accessible, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavours in the comfort of your own home. Pair it with fragrant saffron rice, and you have a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

The Allure of Butter Chicken

At its core, butter chicken showcases the perfect balance of spices, cream, and tomato. The dish is believed to have been invented in Delhi at the Moti Mahal restaurant, where leftover chicken was simmered with tomatoes, butter, and cream. Its popularity has soared worldwide, making it a staple in Indian restaurants and home kitchens alike.

The Instant Pot is a game-changer when it comes to preparing butter chicken. Not only does it reduce cooking time significantly, but it also allows the flavours to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying sauce.

Ingredients

For the Butter Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
• 400g canned chopped tomatoes
• 200ml double cream
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander, for garnish

For the Saffron Rice:

• 300g basmati rice
• 600ml water
• A pinch of saffron threads
• 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
• Salt, to taste

Method

Preparing the Butter Chicken:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ setting. Add the ghee or butter, and once hot, toss in the cumin seeds. Allow them to sizzle for a few seconds before adding the chopped onions. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Mix in the Spices: Add the garam masala, turmeric, coriander, and red chilli powder. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to release their aromas.

4. Incorporate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces, stirring well to coat them in the spice mix. Sauté for about 5 minutes.

5. Add Tomatoes and Pressure Cook: Pour in the canned tomatoes and season with salt. Stir to combine, then close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to ‘sealing’. Select ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ on high pressure for 8 minutes.

6. Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to ‘venting’ to release any remaining pressure.

7. Finish the Sauce: Open the lid and stir in the double cream. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and let it simmer on ‘Sauté’ for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.

8. Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander.

Preparing the Saffron Rice:

1. Soak the Saffron: In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in a couple of tablespoons of warm water; this will release its vibrant colour and flavour.

2. Rinse the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial to achieving fluffy, non-sticky rice.

3. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, heat the oil or ghee, add the rinsed rice, and lightly fry for 1–2 minutes. Pour in the water, including the water infused with saffron, and season with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the buttery, aromatic chicken over a generous helping of saffron rice. The rich sauce pairs beautifully with the fragrant rice, creating a delightful fusion of flavours that will transport you straight to the streets of Delhi. Accompany the meal with naan or a side of tangy cucumber raita for added freshness.

Conclusion

Instant Pot butter chicken with saffron rice is a perfect dish for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. With its ease of preparation and stunning flavours, it promises to impress your family and friends alike. Give this recipe a try, and indulge in a delicious escape to the heart of Indian cuisine!