Chicken Tikka Masala
Juicy marinated chicken grilled or seared and simmered in a creamy tomato sauce with bold Indian spices. Perfect for comforting, flavorful meals that are easy to make and family-friendly.
Equipment
- Grill or Skillet
- Deep Pan
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Masala Sauce
- 2 tbsp cooking oil or ghee
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1.5 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder optional
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- salt to taste
- fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add the chicken and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
- Cook the chicken by your choice: grill skewers until charred and cooked through, broil in the oven for a similar effect, or sear in a hot skillet with oil. Set aside.
- Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground spices and toast for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in cream, return chicken to the pan, and simmer together for 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
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Notes
Use chicken thighs for juicier results. Adjust spice levels to your liking. Try coconut milk for a dairy-free version.