Name: Instant Pot Country Captain Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon bacon drippings (or vegetable oil); 1 tablespoon butter; 1 onion, chopped; 2 ribs celery, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 to 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, without skin; 1/2 cup chicken stock; 1 1/2 tablespoons curry powder (or to taste); 1/4 cup raisins; 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with juices; 1 cinnamon stick; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Optional: slivered or sliced almonds, toasted, for garnish; Optional: chopped cilantro or parsley

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

Instant Pot country captain chicken is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed any night of the week. Country Captain chicken is a comforting Southern classic infused with warm Indian-inspired flavors. Traditionally believed to have originated in Savannah, Georgia, this curried chicken dish may have been introduced to the South by a British officer returning from India. The Instant Pot makes this version especially quick and easy, with tender chicken thighs, sweet raisins, and savory spices coming together in a fragrant tomato-based sauce. Serve it over hot cooked rice or cauliflower rice and top it off with a handful of toasted almonds or fresh herbs for a satisfying meal full of history and flavor.

This Instant Pot shredded chicken is another great way to prepare chicken thighs. Or you might like this easy Indian-style mulligatawny chicken.

Recipe Variations

Use bone-in chicken thighs for added flavor, increasing the cook time to 10 minutes.
Add a small diced apple along with the vegetables for a hint of sweetness.
Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist.
Add a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for brightness.
Replace green bell pepper with red or yellow for added sweetness.
Use Madras curry powder for a spicier or more complex flavor.
Stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end for a creamier sauce.
Top with chopped peanuts or cashews instead of almonds for crunch.

?️How to Serve Country Captain Chicken

Spoon the chicken and sauce over hot cooked basmati or jasmine rice.
Use cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option.
Serve with coconut rice for an aromatic base.
Serve it with warm naan or flatbread on the side to soak up the sauce.
Add a side of sautéed greens, such as spinach or kale, for added contrast.
Offer lime wedges on the side for a bright, citrusy finish.

How to Store and Reheat Country Captain Chicken

Transfer leftovers to a shallow airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours. Country Captain chicken will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the name and date, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, transfer the chicken and sauce to a saucepan and warm over medium heat until heated through, about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or stock if the sauce is too thick.

To reheat in the microwave, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot throughout (165°F). Add a splash of broth or water if necessary.