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Easy Instant Pot Paleo Chicken Tikka Masala photo

Instant Pot Paleo Chicken Tikka Masala

This Instant Pot Paleo Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful dish with tender chicken and aromatic spices, perfect for busy weeknights!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Instant Pot
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tikka Masala:

  • 2 to 3 pounds boneless chicken breasts chopped
  • 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 3 Tbsp ghee
  • 1/2 yellow onion finely chopped
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 Tbsp fresh ginger peeled and grated
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
  • 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1 1/2 cups full-fat canned coconut milk
  • 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 Tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 Tbsp pure maple syrup (optional)

Instructions
 

Instructions:

  • Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Once hot, add 3 tablespoons of ghee. Let it melt before adding the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
  • Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Stir in the ground cinnamon, paprika, 1 teaspoon of garam masala, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. Mix well to coat the onions with the spices, allowing them to bloom for about 1 minute.
  • Add the chopped chicken breasts to the pot, stirring to ensure every piece is coated with the aromatic mixture.
  • Now it's time to add the remaining spices: 2 teaspoons of garam masala, 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom, 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt. Mix to combine. Pour in the coconut milk, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. If you like a hint of sweetness, add 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup. Stir everything well.
  • Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to "Sealing." Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
  • Open the lid carefully and give the Tikka Masala a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot over cauliflower rice or with your favorite paleo-friendly side!

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices and coconut milk for a few hours before cooking.
  • Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences.
  • If you don’t have ghee, you can substitute with coconut oil or olive oil.
Keyword Easy, Healthy, Instant Pot, Paleo