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Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

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4.7 from 17 reviews

This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is a classic Indian dish that features marinated chicken cooked in a flavorful, creamy tomato sauce. Perfectly spiced and served with rice and naan, it’s a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 1 cup plain yogurt or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (not cayenne pepper)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
  • 2 teaspoons finely minced garlic
  • 1 & 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small bite-sized pieces

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large sweet onion, finely diced
  • 2 teaspoons grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 8 ounce can tomato sauce (unseasoned)
  • 1 & 1/4 cups heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup water (only if needed)

For Serving

  • Chopped cilantro for garnish
  • Naan bread
  • Cooked basmati rice

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the marinade; add the chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate for 1 hour (ideally overnight in the fridge, if time permits.)
  2. Cook the Chicken: Warm oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, fry for 1 minute, then sauté until browned. Set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: Melt butter in the same pan. Saute onions, ginger, and garlic. Add brown sugar, spices, tomato sauce, and cream. Simmer until thickened.
  4. Combine and Serve: Add chicken back to the pan, cook until done. Serve over rice with naan, garnished with cilantro.

Notes

  • Chicken breast vs. Chicken thighs: Both work well, with thighs being more flavorful but fattier.
  • Want it spicy? Add cayenne or chili flakes.
  • Yogurt: Greek or plain yogurt can be used.

Nutrition