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Chicken Tikka Masala

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time15 minsCook Time30 minsTotal Time45 mins

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved Indian-inspired dish featuring tender marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato curry sauce. This aromatic dish is perfect for serving with basmati rice and warm naan bread, making it a comforting and flavorful meal for any occasion.

Chicken Tikka Masala

For the Chicken Marinade
 1 ¼ kg chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
 1 cup plain yogurt
 2 tbsp lemon juice
 1 tbsp ginger paste
 1 tbsp garlic paste
 1 tsp ground cumin
 1 tsp ground coriander
 1 tsp turmeric powder
 ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
 ½ tsp salt
For the Masala Sauce
 2 tbsp vegetable oil
 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
 3 cloves garlic (minced)
 1 tbsp ginger paste
 2 tsp ground cumin
 2 tsp garam masala
 1 tsp paprika
 ½ tsp ground turmeric
 ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
 1 can heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
 ½ cup chicken broth (optional, for adjusting consistency)
 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
 Salt and pepper (to taste)
For Garnish
 Fresh cilantro (chopped)
 Lemon wedges
Marinate the Chicken
1

 

  1. Mix the Marinade:
    • In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, and all the spices.
  2. Coat the Chicken:
    • Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Cook the Chicken
2

 

  1. Preheat the Oven or Grill:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet or grill pan. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is charred and cooked through. Set aside.
Prepare the Masala Sauce
3

 

  1. Heat the Oil:
    • In a large skillet or saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Onion:
    • Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden and softened.
  3. Add Garlic and Spices:
    • Stir in minced garlic, ginger paste, cumin, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add Tomatoes:
    • Pour in the diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, mashing the tomatoes slightly with a spoon.
  5. Blend the Sauce (Optional):
    • For a smoother sauce, blend the tomato mixture using an immersion blender or transfer to a blender.
Combine and Simmer
4

 

  1. Add Cream and Broth:
    • Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth (if using) to adjust the consistency. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the Chicken:
    • Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce and simmer for another 5-7 minutes to combine flavors.
Serving Suggestions
5

 

  1. Plate the Dish:
    • Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and lemon wedges.
  2. Pair with Sides:
    • Pair with basmati rice, naan bread, or a simple cucumber salad.
Pro Tips
6

 

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk in place of heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free curry.
  • Make It Spicier: Increase the chili powder or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken a day in advance to save time.

Nutrition Facts

0 servings

Serving size