The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful and comforting Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. It combines tender chicken with aromatic spices, creating a dish that’s loved by many across the world.

The recipe for Chicken Tikka Masala involves grilling or pan-frying the chicken, then simmering it in a creamy, tangy sauce. This fusion of flavors makes it a perfect choice for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

• Delicious and Rich Flavor: The creamy tomato sauce is filled with spices that create a depth of flavor, making every bite rich and satisfying.

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare this dish even if you’re new to cooking.

• Customizable Spice Level: You can adjust the heat of the sauce to match your preference, making it perfect for everyone.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special event, Chicken Tikka Masala fits right in.

Pre-Preparation of Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Before cooking, marinate the chicken pieces for at least 30 minutes to absorb the spices and ensure a tender result. Prepare all ingredients, such as chopping onions, garlic, and measuring out the spices, for smooth cooking.

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breast or thighs, cut into cubes

• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground paprika

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• Salt to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a pan and cook the marinated chicken until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until soft. Add diced tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Finish the Dish: Add the cooked chicken back to the pan, stir in garam masala, and cook for another 5 minutes. Pour in cream, simmer for 5 more minutes until thickened.

5. Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

FAQs About Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

1Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?
It can be, but you can adjust the spice level by adding less chili or increasing the cream for a milder taste.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work great and add extra tenderness to the dish.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or paneer for a vegetarian version of Chicken Tikka Masala.