Introduction for chicken masala recipe
Welcome to another flavorful journey in your kitchen! Today, we’re diving into the aromatic world of Indian cuisine with a tantalizing chicken masala recipe. Bursting with spices and rich flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your Chicken Masala Recipe repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook looking to spice things up or a newbie eager to explore new culinary horizons, this recipe is perfect for you.
Who is this Recipe For?
This chicken masala recipe is ideal for anyone craving a taste of authentic Indian flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the fuss. Even if you’re new to Indian cooking, fear not! This recipe is beginner-friendly, with simple steps and readily available ingredients. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, so whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, everyone is sure to enjoy it.
Why it’s Great
What makes this chicken masala recipe truly exceptional is its perfect balance of spices and textures. Tender chicken pieces are simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with a medley of aromatic spices. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, with hints of warmth from the spices and a subtle tanginess from the tomatoes. Plus, the recipe is incredibly versatile—you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences and customize it with your favorite ingredients.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure you have everything you need:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chopping board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients for chicken masala recipe
For the chicken masala, you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Directions for chicken masala recipe
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, and cook for another 5 minutes, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.
- Add the spices—ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, and paprika—to the skillet, and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Garnish the chicken masala with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy hot with steamed rice or naan bread.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- For a spicier kick, add a chopped green chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the chicken for paneer cubes or mixed vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, and peas.
- To save time, use store-bought garam masala instead of making your own spice blend.
- Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal later on.
Chicken Masala Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1- inch piece of ginger grated
- 2 tomatoes diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, and cook for another 5 minutes, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.
- Add the spices—ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, and paprika—to the skillet, and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Garnish the chicken masala with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy hot with steamed rice or naan bread.
Notes
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in the chicken masala recipe? Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, so feel free to use them in this chicken masala recipe.
- How long will the leftovers of the chicken masala recipe last? Store any leftover chicken masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- What can I serve with the chicken masala recipe? Chicken masala pairs perfectly with steamed rice, naan bread, or even roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
- Can I make substitutions in the chicken masala recipe? Yes, you can customize the chicken masala recipe to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to swap out spices or add extra ingredients to make it your own.
- How can I adjust the spice level in the chicken masala recipe? You can easily adjust the spice level in the chicken masala recipe by adding more or less of the spices according to your preference. Start with smaller amounts and taste as you go until you reach your desired level of heat.
Food and Drink Pairings
- Pair this chicken masala with a refreshing cucumber raita or a side of creamy yogurt for a cool contrast to the spices.
- For drinks, try serving it with a crisp Indian lager or a fruity white wine like Riesling or Gewürztraminer.
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Conclusion
With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, this chicken masala recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, it’s a delicious way to explore the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start cooking up a storm. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes and culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!