Name: Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-485876H59M58S
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 600g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks; 150g natural yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, grated; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 400g canned chopped tomatoes; 150ml double cream or coconut milk; Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish; Salt and pepper, to taste

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala is a vibrant, creamy, and perfectly spiced dish that brings together tender marinated chicken in a rich tomato-based sauce. This recipe blends traditional Indian flavors with Ramsay’s signature finesse, making it an ideal meal for anyone craving a restaurant-quality curry at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances bold spices with creamy textures without overwhelming the palate. The chicken is juicy and packed with flavor thanks to the marinade, while the sauce is silky and aromatic. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated dish that’s great for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, it’s easier to make than many might think, which makes it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

600g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
150g natural yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
400g canned chopped tomatoes
150ml double cream or coconut milk
Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Salt and pepper, to taste

directions

In a bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and cumin. Add the chicken pieces, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining oil and sauté the onion until soft and golden, about 8 minutes.
Stir in the canned tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and reduces slightly.
Return the chicken to the pan, pour in the cream, and simmer gently for another 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour including marination

Variations

I sometimes like to swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if I want a leaner option. You can also make it dairy-free by using coconut cream instead of double cream. For a smoky flavor, try grilling the marinated chicken before adding it to the sauce. Adding a handful of chopped spinach towards the end of cooking is another great way to add some greens and texture.

storage/reheating

I store leftover Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I gently warm it in a pan over low heat to avoid curdling the cream, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. It also freezes well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely. Chicken breasts work well, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more quickly than thighs.

What can I use instead of yogurt for the marinade?

If you don’t have yogurt, sour cream or buttermilk can be used as alternatives for tenderizing the chicken.

Is this recipe very spicy?

I like to keep it moderately spicy, but you can adjust the chili powder to make it milder or hotter based on your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken, and replace the cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.

What should I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

I usually serve it with basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

Making Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala at home is a rewarding experience that fills the kitchen with incredible aromas and delivers a rich, satisfying meal. I appreciate how the dish balances spices and creaminess perfectly, making it accessible yet impressive. Whether for a casual dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe always impresses and keeps me coming back for more.

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala