Chicken Tikka Masala: Easy Recipe for Home Chefs

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish across the globe, renowned for its rich flavors and succulent, spiced chicken. This easy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is perfect for home chefs looking to bring a taste of India into their kitchens. Let's dive into how you can whip up this delightful dish with ease.

Ingredients

To start making Chicken Tikka Masala at home, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Chicken Marination:
  • 400g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • Salt to taste
• For the Masala Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ¹⁄₂ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 ¹⁄₂ cups tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a lighter version
  • Optional: Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Preparation of Chicken

Marinate the chicken to infuse flavors:

1. Combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, ginger-garlic paste, and salt in a bowl.
2. Add the chicken pieces to this mixture and coat well.
3. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours for a deeper flavor.

👨‍🍳 Note: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your chicken will be.

Cooking the Chicken

After marination, cook the chicken:

1. Preheat your oven’s grill or use a grill pan on high heat.
2. Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely charred and cooked through.
3. If using an oven, place the chicken on a baking tray and broil for the same amount of time, ensuring even cooking.

Making the Masala Sauce

While your chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce:

1. Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and starting to caramelize.
3. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute.
4. Add the spices: garam masala, ground coriander, paprika, ground cumin, and sugar. Cook until aromatic.
5. Pour in the tomato puree, mixing well, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken.
6. Finally, stir in the cream or coconut milk and let it heat through. Adjust seasoning as needed.

🍅 Note: For a richer sauce, you can blend the onions with the tomatoes before cooking them.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Here’s how you bring everything together:

1. Add the grilled chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat each piece thoroughly.
2. Let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors together.
3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves if desired.

Serving

Serve your Chicken Tikka Masala with:

• Steamed basmati rice or jeera rice
• Naan or paratha for soaking up the sauce
• A side of raita or cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast

This summary brings us to the end of our guide on preparing a delectable Chicken Tikka Masala at home. With this easy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe, even beginners can master the art of Indian cuisine. Each step, from marinating to simmering in the sauce, enhances the flavor profile, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or entertaining guests. Remember, the key to a great Tikka Masala lies in the quality of the spices and the time you allow for marination. Enjoy your cooking!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

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Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are typically more flavorful and less likely to dry out due to their higher fat content. If using breasts, marinate longer for best results.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?

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Coconut milk or cashew cream can be used as substitutes for a dairy-free version. Both provide a creamy texture with a slightly different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish spicier?

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Increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh green chilies or cayenne pepper. Adjust to your spice tolerance.

Can Chicken Tikka Masala be prepared in advance?

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Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. The sauce can also be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen. Just reheat and add the chicken before serving.

What are some common sides to serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

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Besides basmati rice and naan, you might serve it with pulao, cucumber salad, papadums, or even grilled vegetables for a varied texture and flavor profile.