Savor the rich and aromatic flavors of India with this Chicken Tikka Masala recipe. Tender pieces of marinated chicken are cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfectly paired with rice or naan bread, this classic Indian dish is a celebration of spices and textures that will transport your taste buds to a culinary journey.
Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe - A Flavorful Indian Delight
Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that captures the essence of Indian cuisine. With its combination of marinated chicken and creamy tomato sauce, it offers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. By following this recipe, you'll create a memorable culinary experience that brings the vibrant tastes of India to your dining table.
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- skewers
- large skillet
- wooden spoon
Ingredients
- bonless chicken
- plain yogurt
- lemon juice
- ginger
- garlic
- cumin
- coriander
- tumeric
- cayenne pepper
- salt
- oil or ghee
- heavy cream
- paprika
- cinnamon
- tomato puree
- water
- fresh cilantro
- sugar
- cardamom
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill until cooked and slightly charred. If not grilling, preheat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Add a small amount of oil to the pan and cook the marinated chicken pieces until they are fully cooked and have a nice golden color. Set aside.
- In the same pan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.Stir in ginger paste and garlic paste, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, paprika, cinnamon powder, cardamom powder, and cayenne pepper. Sauté the spices for a minute to release their flavors.
- Pour in the tomato puree and cook for a few minutes until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
- Reduce the heat to low and add heavy cream and water. Simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Season the sauce with salt and a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Add the cooked chicken pieces to the tikka masala sauce, ensuring they are fully coated with the flavorful sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few more minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot with steamed rice, naan bread, or your preferred Indian bread.
Notes
- Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper in both the marinade and the sauce.
- For a smoky flavor, you can grill the marinated chicken pieces before adding them to the sauce.
- Use Greek yogurt for a thicker marinade.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the tomato puree before adding it to the pan.
Nutrition
Serving: 900g
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