Keto Butter Chicken In An Instant Pot

Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this Keto Butter Chicken In An Instant Pot. It’s a comforting, creamy dish that packs a punch of spices and is perfect for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. The Instant Pot makes this recipe a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a rich, aromatic meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this delectable dish!

Why Cooks Rave About It

Keto Butter Chicken In An Instant Pot is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s rich and creamy, thanks to the heavy whipping cream and butter, making it feel indulgent while still being low in carbs. Second, the Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process, allowing you to whip up a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. Finally, the spices create a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist. It’s the perfect dish for meal prep, family dinners, or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken: You can use 2-3 chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
• Onion: A half medium onion, diced, will add depth and sweetness to the sauce.
• Butter: Use 4 ounces of unsalted butter or ghee for a rich base that enhances flavor.
• Garlic: Five tablespoons of minced garlic provide a robust flavor that complements the spices.
• Tomato Sauce: An 15-ounce can of tomato sauce serves as the foundation for the sauce, adding tanginess.
• Tomato Paste: Two tablespoons of tomato paste intensify the tomato flavor.
• Spices: A blend of paprika, chili powder, curry powder, cumin, and salt will create a warm, spicy flavor profile.
• Cilantro: A quarter cup of chopped cilantro adds freshness and color to the final dish.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: One cup of heavy whipping cream makes the sauce decadently creamy.

Must-Have Equipment

• Instant Pot: The star of this recipe, allowing for quick cooking and easy clean-up.
• Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for preparing your ingredients, particularly the chicken and onion.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in measuring your ingredients, especially the spices and liquids.
• Spatula: Useful for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot to prevent burning.

Keto Butter Chicken In An Instant Pot in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and absorb the flavorful sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the butter or ghee and let it melt. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté until transparent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pot, stirring to coat them in the buttery onion and garlic mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on the outside.

Step 4: Stir in the Tomato Ingredients

Add the tomato sauce and tomato paste to the pot, mixing everything well. This is where the magic begins! Toss in the paprika, chili powder, curry powder, cumin, and salt, stirring to combine. The spices will create a beautiful color and aroma.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining steam.

Step 6: Add the Cream

Once the pressure is released, remove the lid and stir in the heavy whipping cream. This will make the sauce luxuriously creamy. You can adjust the seasoning at this point, adding more salt or spices if desired.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish your Keto Butter Chicken with chopped cilantro and serve hot. It pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Budget & Availability Swaps

• Chicken: If you want to save money, consider using frozen chicken or buying in bulk.
• Butter: Ghee is a great substitute if you want a dairy-free option, and it adds a unique flavor.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: For a lighter version, you can use coconut cream, although the flavor will differ.
• Spices: If you don’t have some spices on hand, a pre-made curry powder can work in a pinch.

What Not to Do

• Do not skip the sauté step; it builds the flavor base for your sauce.
• Avoid overcooking the chicken; it can become dry. The Instant Pot cooking time is crucial for juicy chicken.
• Don’t rush the natural pressure release; it ensures the chicken stays tender and prevents the sauce from splattering.
• Refrain from using low-fat cream; it won’t yield the same creamy texture and richness.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day! You can also freeze the butter chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Common Qs About Keto Butter Chicken In An Instant Pot

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

What can I serve with Keto Butter Chicken?

Keto Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a side of sautéed vegetables. It’s versatile and can complement many low-carb sides.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with coconut oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for a delicious dairy-free version.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe! Just ensure that you don’t exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot, and the cooking time will remain the same.

You Might Also Like

• Keto Chicken Curry
• Instant Pot Keto Chili
• Keto Butter Chicken Soup
• Creamy Keto Pesto Chicken

See You at the Table

This Keto Butter Chicken In An Instant Pot is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. So gather your ingredients, set your Instant Pot, and get ready to indulge in one of the most delicious keto meals you’ll ever make. Happy cooking!