Classic Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that originated in India and has captivated taste buds around the world. This creamy, spiced curry is made with marinated chicken that is grilled or roasted and then simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for serving with basmati rice or naan, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a restaurant-quality Chicken Tikka Masala right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder. Add the chicken pieces and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the grilled chicken to the sauce and stir well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Season with salt to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.
FAQs
What is Chicken Tikka Masala?
Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish made with marinated chicken that is grilled or baked and then cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce.
Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with paneer, tofu, or vegetables like bell peppers and cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian version.
How spicy is Chicken Tikka Masala?
The spice level can vary based on the amount of chili powder or other spices you use. You can adjust the heat to your preference by adding more or less chili powder.
Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them when ready to serve.
What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?
Chicken Tikka Masala pairs well with basmati rice, naan, or even a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.