Instant Pot Chicken Curry Recipe

There’s something magical about a big bowl of curry with fluffy rice. On busy weeknights, I love reaching for my Instant Pot—it takes the stress out of dinner. This Instant Pot Chicken Curry has become a family favorite because it’s quick, creamy, and full of flavor. The Instant Pot really shines here, locking in all those spices without hovering over the stove. If you’re new to Instant Pot Recipes, this one is a perfect start. I first tried this when I was craving comfort food but didn’t want to wait hours for it to simmer. These days, it’s on rotation along with our favorites like Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili.

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What You’ll Need

For this curry, I stick with pantry basics plus a few spices that make it shine. Here’s what I pull out when making it:

• Chicken thighs or breasts – thighs stay juicier, but breasts work too.
• Onion, garlic, ginger – fresh makes a huge difference.
• Tomato puree – the base of the sauce.
• Yogurt or cream – to add richness and balance the spices.
• Spices – garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika.
• Oil or ghee – for sautéing.
• Cilantro – for garnish.
• Basmati rice – optional, but perfect on the side.

Tip: I like to toast my spices in oil for a minute—it wakes them up and makes the curry taste so much deeper. It’s the same trick I use when making Pressure Cooker Chicken Curry.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Instant Pot Chicken Curry

Once you have everything ready, the Instant Pot takes care of the heavy lifting.

Step 1 — Sauté aromatics

Turn on sauté mode, heat a little oil or ghee, and add onions until golden. Then toss in garlic and ginger. This step builds the flavor base. I always wait until I smell the ginger—then I know it’s ready.

Step 2 — Toast spices

Sprinkle in turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, and garam masala. Let them bloom in the hot oil for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn them—stir quickly.

Step 3 — Add chicken and tomato puree

Mix in the chicken pieces, coating them well with spices, then pour in tomato puree. This locks in the flavor.

Step 4 — Pressure cook

Add about ½ cup water, close the lid, and set to high pressure for 8 minutes. The Instant Pot does its magic here—no babysitting required. (While waiting, I sometimes prep dessert like Air Fryer French Toast Sticks for the kids.)

Step 5 — Finish with cream or yogurt

Once pressure is released, stir in cream or yogurt. The sauce turns silky and irresistible. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 6 — Garnish and serve

Sprinkle fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan. My kids always race to scoop extra sauce over their rice.

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Pro Tips & Easy Swaps

• Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
• Sub coconut milk for cream if you want it dairy-free.
• Add potatoes or peas for extra veggies.
• Toasting spices in oil makes all the difference.
• Double the batch—it reheats beautifully.
• For mild curry, reduce chili powder.
• For extra depth, stir in a spoonful of butter before serving.
• If the sauce is too thin, simmer on sauté for 5 minutes.

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Serving Ideas & Variations

This curry is so versatile. I usually serve it with basmati rice, but naan or parathas are just as delicious. You could also try:

• Brown rice for a healthier twist.
• Quinoa instead of rice.
• Cauliflower rice for low-carb.
• Add chickpeas for a protein boost.
• Stir in spinach right at the end.
• Pair with a cucumber raita to cool the spice.
• Serve alongside a light salad to balance the richness.

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Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• Burn notice on Instant Pot – Deglaze the pot well with water or stock before pressure cooking.
• Too watery sauce – Simmer on sauté to reduce and thicken.
• Too spicy – Add cream or a spoonful of yogurt to tone it down.
• Chicken overcooked – Stick with thighs; they’re more forgiving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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You’ll Also Love

• Instant Pot Lentil Soup – hearty and comforting.
• Instant Pot Cheesecake – creamy perfection for dessert.
• Instant Pot Ribs – tender, saucy, and finger-licking good.

If you’re loving this curry, check out more Instant Pot Recipes for easy weeknight wins.