Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful and satisfying Indian dish that is a great choice for meal prep. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also easy to make in bulk and can be stored in the refrigerator for quick and delicious meals throughout the week.
When it comes to meal prep, it’s important to choose recipes that are both flavorful and filling. Chicken Tikka Masala is the perfect dish for this, as it is made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich and aromatic sauce made from a blend of spices, tomato, and cream.
This classic dish is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s sure to be a hit with your family, friends, or coworkers when you serve it as part of your meal prep routine.
Whether you’re looking to simplify your meal prep routine or you’re simply looking for a delicious and satisfying dish, Chicken Tikka Masala made in the Instant Pot is a must-try.
In this recipe, we will show you how to make this classic Indian dish using the convenience of an Instant Pot, making it quick, easy, and foolproof. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal prep routine.
Appetizer Pairings:
To accompany your Chicken Tikka Masala, consider serving some delicious appetizers such as samosas, pakoras or mint chutney. These appetizers will not only add to the overall experience of your meal but also help to balance out the flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Rice or naan, for serving
Ingredient Substitutions
- Yogurt: If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with sour cream or heavy cream. However, the texture may be slightly different.
- Garam Masala: This spice blend is essential for the flavor of the dish, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute it with a mixture of cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Tomatoes: If you don’t have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes.
- Ginger and Garlic: If you don’t have fresh ginger and garlic, you can use ginger and garlic paste.
- Chicken: You can use boneless chicken breast or boneless chicken thighs for this recipe.
- Heavy Cream: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half and half or even whole milk. However, the creaminess of the sauce may be slightly different.
- Chili Powder: If you don’t have chili powder, you can use cayenne pepper or red chili flakes. The level of spiciness will depend on the amount you use, so adjust accordingly.
It’s important to note that while ingredient substitutions can change the flavor and texture of the dish, they can still be delicious! The most important thing is to use ingredients that you enjoy and that are readily available to you.
Step by Step Guide:
- In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, chili powder, paprika, and salt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the marinated chicken to the Instant Pot and cook for 5 minutes until the chicken is browned.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to manual pressure cook mode for 8 minutes.
- Quick release the pressure and open the lid. Stir in the heavy cream and cilantro.
- Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over rice or with naan.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Chicken Tikka Masala is a perfect meal prep recipe to have in your arsenal. Its bold, flavorful and spicy taste makes it a great option for lunch or dinner throughout the week. With the use of an Instant Pot, you can easily have this dish ready in under 30 minutes, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. If you are looking to add a touch of spice to your meal prep routine, Chicken Tikka Masala is the perfect option. Serve it with rice or naan and you’ll have a complete meal that will keep you full and satisfied throughout the day.
As a meal prep recipe, it’s also important to note that Chicken Tikka Masala can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat the dish in a microwave or on the stove, and it will taste just as good as the day you made it. The leftovers are perfect for busy days when you want a quick and delicious meal without having to start from scratch.
In addition to its versatility and ease, Chicken Tikka Masala is also a great way to add some variety to your meal prep routine. By swapping out the traditional protein for chicken, you’ll still be able to enjoy all the bold flavors of this classic Indian dish, while also changing things up a bit.
So, whether you’re a seasoned meal prepper or just starting out, Chicken Tikka Masala is definitely worth a try. Give it a go, and see how it can elevate your meal prep game.
Looking for other recipes to level up your game? Be sure to check out our new meal prep recipe for Chicken Broccoli Casserole here.