Introduction

Are you craving a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that will transport your taste buds to the streets of India? Look no further than this simple and delicious Chicken Tikka Masala recipe! With tender chunks of marinated chicken simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce, this classic Indian dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Ingredients and Directions

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Course: MainCuisine: IndianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

To make this delicious smoothie, you’ll need:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions

In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, cayenne pepper, ginger, and garlic. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange it on the wire rack. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
While the chicken is baking, heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Transfer the baked chicken pieces to the skillet and toss to coat them in the creamy sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and the flavors have combined.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or warm naan bread.

Tips for Success of Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Marinate the chicken: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will be. If possible, let it marinate overnight for the best results.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. For a spicier kick, add more cayenne or a finely chopped green chili.
Use heavy cream: Heavy cream gives the sauce its signature richness and creaminess. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, and peas for a delicious vegetarian version.
Vegan: Use coconut yogurt for the marinade and coconut cream for the sauce. Replace the chicken with tofu or vegetables.
Instant Pot: Adapt this recipe for your Instant Pot by pressure cooking the marinated chicken and sauce ingredients together for a quick and easy one-pot meal.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Steamed Basmati Rice: Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over a bed of fluffy, fragrant basmati rice for a classic and satisfying combination.
Naan Bread: Warm, soft naan bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces. Brush the naan with garlic butter for an extra burst of flavor.
Cucumber Raita: Balance the richness of the dish with a cool and refreshing cucumber raita. Mix grated cucumber, yogurt, mint, and a pinch of cumin for a delightful side dish.
Mango Chutney: Add a touch of sweetness and tanginess to your plate with a dollop of mango chutney. The fruity flavors complement the spices in the Chicken Tikka Masala perfectly.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring gently to prevent the sauce from burning.

If you want to prepare the dish in advance, you can marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. The sauce can also be prepared ahead of time and stored separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply bake the marinated chicken and heat the sauce, then combine them for a quick and easy meal.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe(based on this recipe) contains approximately:

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving sizes. If you have specific dietary requirements or concerns, it’s always best to calculate the nutritional information based on the actual ingredients you use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for the marinade?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for regular yogurt in the marinade. Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, which can help tenderize the chicken and keep it moist during cooking.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?
While marinating the chicken overnight will yield the most flavorful and tender results, it’s not strictly necessary. If you’re short on time, marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour will still provide good flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are an excellent alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe. They are more flavorful and tend to remain juicier during cooking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To increase the heat level of your Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe, you can add more cayenne pepper to the marinade or sauce. Alternatively, you can include finely chopped green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, flavorful dishes. With its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and aromatic spices, it’s no wonder this dish has become a global favorite. So, gather your ingredients, invite your friends and family, and prepare to indulge in a truly delightful culinary experience!

Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below, and don’t forget to explore our other delicious recipes for more inspiration in the kitchen!

Table of Contents