Name: Instant Pot Tandoori Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 3/4 cup canned full-fat coconut milk; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh minced ginger; 1 tbsp ground cumin; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 3/4 tsp salt; 3/4 tsp ground black pepper; 1/4 tsp ground cayenne

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Instant Pot tandoori chicken is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic spices, coconut milk, and yogurt for a creamy, restaurant-style result—all made quickly and easily in the pressure cooker. It’s a comforting and bold dish that’s perfect with rice, naan, or fresh vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it delivers deep, authentic tandoori flavors with minimal effort. The Instant Pot locks in moisture, so the chicken stays juicy and flavorful, while the spiced coconut yogurt sauce thickens into a velvety coating. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special without requiring hours of marinating or grilling.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3/4 cup canned full-fat coconut milk
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh minced ginger
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne

Directions

Add coconut milk, yogurt, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, pepper, and cayenne to the Instant Pot. Stir until smooth.
Place chicken thighs into the pot, spreading evenly in the mixture.
Secure and seal the lid. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, then quick release the pressure.
Transfer chicken to a plate and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
Set the Instant Pot to sauté (medium heat). Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
Turn off sauté mode. Serve hot with rice, naan, or fresh herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes (including pressure build/release)
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
Add garam masala or coriander for extra depth of flavor.
Stir in spinach, peas, or cauliflower during the sauté step for added veggies.
Make it spicier by increasing the cayenne or adding fresh chopped chili.
For a dairy-free version, use all coconut milk and skip the yogurt.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce. Freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I marinate the chicken before cooking?

Yes, you can mix the chicken with the sauce ingredients and refrigerate for a few hours before cooking for even deeper flavor.

Can I use chicken with bones?

Yes, bone-in thighs or drumsticks work well, though you may need to increase the cooking time to 25 minutes.

Does this taste like traditional grilled tandoori chicken?

It has similar flavors but is creamier since it’s cooked in sauce rather than grilled.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, just replace the yogurt with additional coconut milk.

What should I serve with Instant Pot tandoori chicken?

It pairs well with basmati rice, naan, or a simple cucumber salad.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but avoid overfilling the Instant Pot—only fill to the max line. Cooking time remains the same.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer on sauté mode until reduced, stirring to prevent burning.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors deepen as it sits, making it great for meal prep.

Is it spicy?

It has a mild heat from the cayenne, but you can adjust to taste.

Can I use light coconut milk?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

Conclusion

Instant Pot tandoori chicken is an easy yet flavorful way to enjoy a classic Indian-inspired dish at home. With juicy chicken, warming spices, and a creamy sauce, it’s satisfying and versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Maggie