Print

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala
Print Recipe

Chicken Tikka Masala is a comforting and flavorful Indian curry featuring marinated grilled chicken chunks simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce. This recipe uses simple ingredients and clear steps to create an authentic, customizable dish perfect for beginners and Indian food lovers alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs
  • 150g yogurt
  • 1 tbsp ginger and garlic paste
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil or ghee

Sauce

  • 2 tbsp cooking oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger and garlic paste
  • 400g tomato puree
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 150 ml heavy cream or coconut cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, salt, and oil in a bowl. Toss chicken pieces in this marinade ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor and tenderness.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-fry the marinated chicken pieces over medium-high heat until cooked through and slightly charred on the edges. Remove from heat and set aside to maintain juiciness.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onions until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in tomato puree, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and garam masala. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes to develop deep flavors.
  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the grilled chicken pieces to the simmering sauce, stirring well to coat. Pour in heavy cream or coconut cream and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency and flavors meld beautifully.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped coriander over the curry. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot alongside basmati rice or warm naan bread.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken longer for more tender and flavorful results.
  • Use freshly ground spices for enhanced aroma and depth.
  • Simmer sauce slowly to develop richness and smooth texture.
  • Slightly char the chicken to add traditional tandoori-like flavor.
  • Adjust cream quantity to achieve your preferred sauce richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Tikka Masala, Indian curry, Chicken curry, Indian recipes, Tikka Masala, Easy Indian, Creamy curry

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/chicken-tikka-masala/