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Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala
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This authentic Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is a rich, comforting Indian dish featuring tender marinated chicken cooked in a luscious tomato-based sauce with layers of aromatic spices and creamy texture. Easy to prepare and customizable for heat level, it brings vibrant North Indian flavors right to your kitchen, perfect for a satisfying homemade meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 500g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into pieces
  • 150g plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon garlic and ginger paste
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon garlic and ginger paste
  • 400g tomato puree
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 150ml heavy cream

Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: Mix yogurt, garlic and ginger paste, garam masala, chili powder, salt, and lemon juice in a bowl. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with this marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
  2. Cook the chicken: Traditionally grill or broil the marinated chicken until cooked through with a slight char for smoky flavor. If not using a grill, pan-sear the chicken pieces in a little oil over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.
  3. Prepare the sauce: Heat oil or ghee in a pan, sauté finely chopped onions until golden and soft. Add garlic and ginger paste and cook for about 1 minute. Stir in tomato puree, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Simmer the sauce until oil separates and the flavors develop fully.
  4. Combine chicken and sauce: Add the cooked chicken pieces to the simmering sauce and stir gently to combine. Pour in the heavy cream and mix until the sauce becomes rich and smooth. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the curry. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot alongside warm naan bread, basmati rice, or your preferred sides.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken overnight for juicier and more flavorful meat.
  • Use freshly ground spices for enhanced aroma and taste.
  • Simmer the sauce gently to prevent cream from curdling.
  • A slight char on the chicken adds essential depth and smoky flavor.
  • Adjust cream quantity to your desired richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Tikka Masala, Indian Curry, Spicy Chicken, Indian Cuisine, Creamy Chicken Curry

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/chicken-tikka-masala/