Introduction
Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe: Welcome to the aromatic world of Indian cuisine! Today, we’re diving into the vibrant flavors of chicken tikka masala. This beloved dish combines tender chicken marinated in a tantalizing blend of spices, simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and transport you to the bustling streets of India.
Who is this Recipe For?
This chicken tikka masala recipe is perfect for anyone craving a hearty and satisfying meal bursting with exotic flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious homemade dish, this recipe is guaranteed to please. It’s also a fantastic option for those following a gluten-free or low-carb diet, as it can easily be paired with cauliflower rice or enjoyed on its own.
Why Chicken Tikka Masala?
Chicken tikka masala is hailed as one of the most iconic dishes in Indian cuisine, and for good reason. Its rich and creamy sauce, combined with tender pieces of chicken, creates a harmony of flavors that is simply irresistible. Plus, with its vibrant orange hue and aromatic aroma, it’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Ingredients(Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe)
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions(Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe)
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the cumin, paprika, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
3. Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat the grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill or broil for 6-8 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Remove the chicken from the skewers and add it to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!
Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Ingredients
For The Chicken Marinade
- 1 Lb 450g Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Cut Into Bite-Sized Pieces
- 1 Cup Plain Yogurt
- 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 2 Cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 Tablespoon Ginger Grated
- 1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 Teaspoon Paprika
- 1 Teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1/2 Teaspoon Turmeric
- Salt And Pepper To Taste
For the Sauce
- 2 Tablespoons Oil
- 1 Onion Finely Chopped
- 2 Cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 Tablespoon Ginger Grated
- 1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 Teaspoon Paprika
- 1 Teaspoon Ground Coriander
- 1 Teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1/2 Teaspoon Turmeric
- 1/4 Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust To Taste
- 1 Can 14 Oz Crushed Tomatoes
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream
- Salt To Taste
- Fresh Cilantro For Garnish
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Prepare the Sauce
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the cumin, paprika, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
Cook the Chicken
- Preheat the grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill or broil for 6-8 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through and slightly charred.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Remove the chicken from the skewers and add it to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!
Notes
- Calories: 380 per serving
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Skewers (if grilling)
- Large skillet
- Grill or broiler
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
How to Store Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or gently warm on the stovetop.
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FAQ(Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe)
- What Makes Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe Authentic?
- Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe uses a blend of aromatic spices and a creamy tomato-based sauce, creating a rich and flavorful dish.
- Can I Make Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe Ahead of Time?
- Yes, you can prepare the marinade and sauce for Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe ahead of time and refrigerate. Simply grill the chicken and combine with the sauce when ready to serve.
- Is Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe Spicy?
- The level of spiciness in Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe can be adjusted to your preference. Add more cayenne pepper or chopped green chili for extra heat.
- How Can I Make Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe Vegetarian?
- To make a vegetarian version of Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe, substitute chicken with paneer or tofu and follow the same steps for marinating and cooking.
- Can I Freeze Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe?
- Yes, both the cooked chicken tikka and the sauce for Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe can be frozen separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair this flavorful chicken tikka masala with a refreshing cucumber raita and fluffy basmati rice for a complete meal. For drinks, try a crisp Indian lager or a fruity mango lassi to complement the spices.
Conclusion
Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey to India with my chicken tikka masala recipe. I hope you enjoy recreating this iconic dish in your own kitchen and sharing it with your loved ones. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes and be sure to share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
