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Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala
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This easy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe features tender marinated chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce infused with warming spices. Ready in about 40 minutes, it delivers authentic Indian flavors that are family-friendly and perfect for weeknight dinners, with versatile options for customization.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 120g plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp garam masala (divided)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter or oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tbsp garam masala (remaining)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 400g tomato puree
  • 120ml heavy cream or coconut milk
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine yogurt, half of the garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and lemon juice. Add the chicken and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to infuse flavors and tenderize the meat.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until golden and almost cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the remaining garam masala, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Pour in the tomato puree and let the sauce simmer until it thickens, about 10 minutes.
  4. Simmer and Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir well to coat. Let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through completely.
  5. Finish with Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Adjust salt and pepper to taste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through and the sauce is creamy and luscious.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight for extra tenderness.
  • Use fresh spices for a more vibrant flavor.
  • Don’t skip fresh ginger and garlic; they add essential depth and aroma.
  • Simmer the sauce slowly over low heat for the best flavor melding.
  • Balance the creaminess with acidity from lemon juice or yogurt to cut richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Tikka Masala, Indian Chicken Recipe, Creamy Chicken Curry, Spiced Chicken, Weeknight Dinner

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