Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish known for its rich, creamy tomato sauce and perfectly spiced, tender chicken. It’s a staple in Indian-inspired cuisine that has won hearts across the globe, blending bold flavors with comforting textures. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish will impress.
What Makes Chicken Tikka Masala Special?
The magic lies in the combination of yogurt-marinated chicken, grilled or pan-seared for a smoky flavor, and the luscious sauce made with tomatoes, cream, and a medley of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The balance of tangy, spicy, and creamy notes makes every bite irresistible.
How to Serve It
Chicken Tikka Masala is traditionally paired with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan bread, perfect for scooping up the rich sauce. Add a side of cucumber raita or a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors.
Why You’ll Love It
This dish is surprisingly easy to prepare and can be customized to your spice level preference. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to your table, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Description
Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful dish featuring tender, marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce. It’s often served with basmati rice and warm naan bread, making it a comforting and satisfying meal with rich, aromatic flavors. Perfect for fans of Indian-inspired cuisine!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
For the Sauce:
Optional:
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1-In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, garam masala, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, garlic, ginger, and salt.
2-Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well to coat evenly.
3-Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor. - Step 2: Cook the Chicken
1-Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly grease with oil
2-Cook the marinated chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and charred in spots. (They don’t need to be fully cooked yet as they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.)
3-Set the chicken aside. - Step 3: Make the Sauce
1-In the same skillet, melt butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden and soft (about 5 minutes).
2-Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3-Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
4-Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5-Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free) and simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
Notes
- Adjust Spice Level: You can customize the spice level to your preference by increasing or reducing the chili powder or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace yogurt in the marinade with coconut yogurt and use coconut cream in the sauce for a dairy-free version.