This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure.
This Instant Pot Chicken Curry Soup is the ultimate cold weather comfort food and may just be the easiest recipe you will ever make (almost as easy as this Instant Pot Chana Masala). Taking just 15 minutes in the Instant Pot, this chicken curry stew is packed full of amazing flavor, and has the perfect amount of heat to keep you warm this winter.
Guys, I know I've said this a million times, but this chicken curry soup might be my favorite comfort food recipe of all time. AND, it's SO EASY even the boyfriend can make it. Plus, the flavor is just mouthwateringly amazing.
Cooking the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot results in the most tender, melt-in-your mouth chicken ever. It is incredible. Like we made in this Instant Pot chicken curry or this chicken pasanda.
The garam masala adds a deep, deliciously wonderful flavor, while the coconut milk adds just the perfect touch of creaminess to the dish. I tell you, you're going to want this in your life.
To top it off, this soup takes only 15 minutes in the Instant Pot. Did you hear that? 15 MINUTES!!! Now you have no reason not to make this.
Jump to:
Ingredients
The full list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
The garam masala is a major flavor component of this curry stew. Garam masala is a blend of spices that originate in India. It has a slightly sweet and smoky flavor and adds a wonderful depth of flavor to dishes.
You should be able to find it in the grocery store, but making your own garam masala offers the best flavor!
**Garam masala is a great spice - check out this Indian Roasted Chicken for another wonderful recipe using garam masala**
I also highly recommend using a good chicken stock, or even a chicken bone broth for the best flavor. Regular chicken broth is watery and will result in a less rich flavor.
And ALWAYS use full fat coconut milk for the best results. The lite coconut milk will result in a watery stew with not as much depth and flavor.
As for the jalapenos, use more or less depending on the spiciness you prefer. You can also remove the seeds for a less spicy pepper.
Want to Save This Recipe?
Enter your email & I'll send it to your inbox. Plus, get great new recipes from me every week!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from Went Here 8 This.
The Difference Between Curry Powder and Garam Masala
Garam masala tends to have a sweeter flavor than curry powder. Curry powder has a turmeric base while garam masala contains cinnamon, cloves, cardamom and is perfect used in warm curries like this Spicy Zucchini Curry. Curry powder also tends to have more spice, while garam masala is typically very mild.
Step By Step Instructions
Combine all ingredients EXCEPT the peas, basmati rice, yogurt and cilantro in the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then use the manual release to release any remaining pressure.
Turn the Instant to the normal sauté setting and bring to a simmer. Add the peas and simmer for about 3 minutes.
Add additional salt to taste if necessary. Place in bowls over basmati rice (this coconut jasmine rice is also a great option) and garnish with 1-2 tablespoons of plain yogurt and cilantro. Serve with naan bread.
So seriously, tell me now that this isn't one of the easiest recipes! One pot, limited cleanup, and such amazing flavor - how can you say no??
You may also like the Asian flavors in this delicious chicken quinoa soup.
Serving Options
Naan bread is a wonderful accompaniment to chicken curry stew. You can also serve this with additional basmati rice for a thicker curry stew. Chutney and yogurt can be served with chicken curry as well for a flavor contrast.
Expert Tips
- Chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs, but the result is not as tender and juicy.
- Add more or less jalapenos depending on the level of spice you'd like. I find 2 jalapenos adds just enough spice.
- I always recommend full fat coconut milk be used to provide a richness to the stew. Lite can be substituted, but the result will be a thinner, less rich stew.
- Chicken stock has more flavor and richness than chicken broth. I highly recommend using your own homemade chicken stock, or a very good store brand stock.
Storing Options
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or place in a large pot over medium heat until heated through.
Freezing Instructions
Place the stew in either one airtight container, or multiple serving size airtight containers for convenience. Personally, I use a Foodsaver to freeze individual servings of the stew.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or place in a large pot over medium heat until heated through.
Don't forget to sign up for the email list (don't worry, it's only one a week and it's packed full with AMAZING recipes!) and get your FREE Instant Pot Cookbook!!
Did you make this recipe? Rateit and leave a comment to let me know how it turned out!
Recipe
Instant Pot Chicken Curry Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut in 1-2" pieces
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cups chicken stock (or bone broth)
- 1-15 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 4 teaspoons garam masala
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1-2 jalapenos minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 20 small potatoes halved
- 1 can full fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 4 cups cooked basmati rice
- 1-15 ounce can sweet peas
- 8 ounces plain Greek yogurt (garnish)
- fresh cilantro (garnish)
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients EXCEPT the peas, basmati rice, yogurt and cilantro in the Instant Pot.
- Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then use the manual release to release any remaining pressure.
- Turn the Instant to the normal sauté setting and bring to a simmer.
- Add the peas and simmer for about 3 minutes.
- Add additional salt to taste if necessary. Place in bowls over basmati rice and garnish with 1-2 tablespoons of plain yogurt and cilantro. Serve with naan bread.
Expert Tips:
- Chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs, but the result is not as tender and juicy.
- Add more or less jalapenos depending on the level of spice you'd like. I find 2 jalapenos adds just enough spice.
- I always recommend full fat coconut milk be used to provide a richness to the stew. Lite can be substituted, but the result will be a thinner, less rich stew.
- Chicken stock has more flavor and richness than chicken broth. I highly recommend using your own homemade chicken stock, or a very good store brand stock.
- If you don't have basmati rice, any rice will do. I recommend using jasmine, brown, or wild rice in place of the basmati.
- Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or place in a large pot over medium heat until heated through.
- To freeze: Place the stew in either one airtight container, or multiple serving size airtight containers for convenience. Personally, I use a Foodsaver to freeze individual servings of the stew. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or place in a large pot over medium heat until heated through.
Tara
Looks hearty and amazing! I love Indian flavors, so I can't wait to try this. Also, these photos are gorgeous.
Danielle
Thanks so much Tara! I hope you get a chance to try it 🙂
Marvellina | What To Cook Today
I love how you always manage to get me literally swallow my saliva again and again with those photos. Rustic, comforting, creamy..you name it! and yes..I just love Instant Pot too!
Danielle
LOL thanks so much Marv 🙂 I do love me my comfort food...and the IP!
Kelly Anthony
I've never made masala chicken curry stew but the flavors all sounds amazing. I also love that it can be done start to finish in 15 minutes.
Danielle
It's a great winter comfort food. Thanks Kelly!
Mahy Elamin
Made this delicious recipe tonight for dinner. It was a hit. Thanks for a great recipe & I can’t wait to try your others!
Danielle
Yay! So glad you liked it 🙂
Swathi
Your Instant pot Masala chicken looks delicious. Next time you can add little coriander and cayenne pepper to too. that give masala more flavor.
Danielle
I'll def have to try that! Thanks Swathi!
Kylee from Kylee Cooks
This looks incredible, Danielle!! I love the instant pot, getting food that tastes like it cooked all day in much less time is awesome!
Danielle
Thanks Kylee! Yes, Instant Pot is super awesome for that exact reason 🙂
Amanda
What a great way to use the Instant Pot! This sounds delicious and perfect for the winter. I'll have to give this a try ASAP.
Danielle
Thanks Amanda! I hope you give it a try 🙂
April
I got a vibe inside me just from reading your recipe! Must be so delicious. And the fact that it is so easy just makes it perfect!
Danielle
Thanks April! It's one of those fuzzy feeling recipes 🙂
Cheese Curd In Paradise
I love my Instant Pot! I am loving the hearty pieces of potatoes and chicken! The spice combination sounds wonderful, and the coconut milk must make a creamy and amazing broth.
Danielle
The instant pot is so awesome! We really fell in love with this stew!
Farwin
This looks like the perfect soup for the dreary winter weather here! So warming and comforting! Beautiful photos.
Danielle
Perfect for a dreary day 🙂
Gloria
I don't have an Instant Pot, but I do have a pressure cooker. I know I can make this work. We love curry in our house, so I know this would be a great dinner for us to enjoy.
Danielle
Any pressure cooker will work! Curry is so delicious!!
Tara
I have a bottle of garam masala sitting my pantry that I bought for another recipe. Thanks for another use for it!
Danielle
Perfect! Hope you get a chance to try it!
Demeter
This looks like an amazing bowl of comfort food! Perfect for the this cold, dreary weather we're having.
Danielle
Totally! Thanks Demeter 🙂
Liz
I've been amazed at all the different Instant pot recipes! This one is so perfect to make dinner super easy!
Danielle
The Instant Pot is my favorite kitchen appliance! It can make so many dishes quick and easy to make, without sacrificing flavor.
Anna
this looks like a perfect, cozy and really tasty meal, especially for the cold winter day! Beautiful flavours too!
Danielle
So cozy! Thanks Anna 🙂
lola@cheflolaskitchen
I simply love quick and easy recipes! Surely trying this one.
Danielle
Quick in easy is the best! Hope you love this Lola 🙂