Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup plain yogurt; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 14 oz canned diced tomatoes; 1 cup coconut milk; 2 tbsp curry powder

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

February 11, 2025

Updated:

February 11, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Have you ever tasted the rich and aromatic delight of Chicken Tikka Masala? This iconic Indian dish captivates your senses with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering spices. Picture tender pieces of marinated chicken swimming in a creamy tomato sauce infused with fragrant spices like cumin and coriander. The warmth from the spices combined with the creaminess creates a culinary experience that is hard to resist.

Chicken Tikka Masala is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that can transport you straight to the heart of India. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish fits perfectly for any occasion. Serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey that promises satisfaction with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tikka Masala

Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices in Chicken Tikka Masala creates an incredible depth of flavor that is both satisfying and addictive.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, allowing you to prepare a delicious meal in under an hour without sacrificing quality.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering; this dish never fails to impress.
Healthy Option: Made with fresh ingredients and lean chicken breast, this recipe offers a nutritious choice without compromising taste.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Chicken Tikka Masala

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I recommend using thighs for their juicy texture; they hold up well during cooking.
Plain Yogurt: Use plain yogurt for marinating the chicken; it helps tenderize the meat while adding tanginess.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds aromatic flavor; ensure they are minced finely for even distribution throughout the dish.
Ginger Root: Fresh ginger enhances the overall flavor profile; grate it finely before adding to the marinade.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Use quality diced tomatoes as they form the base of your sauce; look for no-salt-added versions if watching sodium intake.

For the Sauce:

Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess without dairy; choose full-fat coconut milk for richer flavor.
Curry Powder: A blend of spices that gives Chicken Tikka Masala its signature taste; adjust based on your spice preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, salt, and lemon juice. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to broil (high heat). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a rack on top. Arrange marinated chicken on the rack and broil for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked and slightly charred.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent. Stir in canned diced tomatoes followed by coconut milk. Allow it to simmer gently for about five minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add grilled chicken pieces into the sauce along with additional curry powder if desired. Stir well to combine and let it simmer on low heat for another ten minutes so flavors meld together.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste your Chicken Tikka Masala and adjust seasoning as necessary. If desired, add fresh cilantro before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to plates alongside basmati rice or naan bread for an excellent dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor penetration into the chicken, try marinating overnight.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to reduce or increase curry powder based on your spice preference.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach or bell peppers into your sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

Mistakes to avoid

Not Marinating the Chicken: One common mistake when preparing Chicken Tikka Masala is skipping the marination step. Marinating the chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Aim for at least an hour, but overnight marination yields the best results. Use a mix of yogurt and spices for a rich taste. If you rush this step, your dish may end up lacking depth and tenderness.
Using Low-Quality Spices: The spices you choose play a crucial role in the overall flavor of Chicken Tikka Masala. Many people overlook the quality of their spices, opting for old or low-grade options. Fresh whole spices ground just before cooking will elevate your dish significantly. Investing in good-quality spices enhances your meal and ensures authenticity in flavor profiles.
Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooking can dry out your chicken and ruin your Chicken Tikka Masala. To achieve that perfect balance of juicy meat and rich sauce, cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If using a grill or oven, keep a close eye on cooking times, as they can vary based on size and method. This mistake often leads to disappointment in texture.
Ignoring Sauce Consistency: Many cooks forget to adjust the sauce’s consistency during preparation. For Chicken Tikka Masala, you want a creamy yet thick sauce that clings to the chicken. If it’s too watery, add some cream or coconut milk to thicken it up. Conversely, if it’s too thick, incorporate a little water or broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro add brightness to your Chicken Tikka Masala but are often overlooked. Some cooks skip this step or use dried herbs instead, which lack vibrancy. Always finish your dish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and color. It enhances presentation while elevating taste, making it an essential part of any authentic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Tikka Masala is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Steamed Basmati Rice – The fluffy grains soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite a delight.
Naan Bread – This soft, pillowy bread is perfect for scooping up the rich Chicken Tikka Masala and adds a traditional touch to your meal.
Fresh Salad – A light cucumber and tomato salad adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy flavors of the dish.

FAQs

What is Chicken Tikka Masala?

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish consisting of marinated chicken pieces cooked in a creamy tomato sauce. The chicken is typically marinated in yogurt and spices before being grilled or baked, giving it a smoky flavor. The sauce combines ingredients like tomatoes, cream, and various spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. This dish has gained worldwide popularity due to its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Tikka Masala in advance. In fact, the flavors often deepen when the dish sits for a while. To make it ahead of time, cook the chicken and sauce separately until just combined. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stove until warmed through.

What can I substitute for cream in Chicken Tikka Masala?

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative or want to avoid dairy, you can substitute cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. Coconut milk provides a rich texture while adding a hint of sweetness that complements the spices beautifully. Cashew cream, made by blending soaked cashews with water, creates a creamy consistency without dairy while maintaining flavor integrity.

Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?

The spiciness of Chicken Tikka Masala can vary based on personal preference and regional variations. Traditionally, it features moderate heat due to spices like chili powder and garam masala. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can adjust the heat by reducing these ingredients or opting for milder varieties. Alternatively, serving it with cooling sides like yogurt or raita helps balance out any spice.

Conclusion for Chicken Tikka Masala

In summary, Chicken Tikka Masala is an enticing dish that brings together tender chicken pieces in a creamy tomato sauce filled with rich spices. It’s easy to customize according to your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or special occasions. Pair it with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal experience that everyone will enjoy. Whether you make it ahead of time or serve it fresh off the stove, this beloved dish will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for bold flavors.

START OF TASTYYYYYYYYYYYY CARDDD

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved Indian dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Imagine tender, marinated chicken pieces enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with aromatic spices like cumin and coriander. This dish not only delights the palate but also offers an inviting presentation with its vibrant colors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, Chicken Tikka Masala pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread, making it a crowd-pleaser that promises to satisfy everyone’s cravings for spicy comfort food. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this easy recipe will guide you through crafting a delicious meal that transports you straight to India with every bite.

Key Ingredients:

– Boneless, skinless chicken thighs

– Plain yogurt

– Garlic cloves

– Fresh ginger

– Canned diced tomatoes

– Coconut milk

– Curry powder

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken by combining yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, salt, and lemon juice in a bowl. Add the chicken and coat well; refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

2. Preheat your oven to broil. Arrange marinated chicken on a rack over a baking sheet and broil for about 15 minutes until cooked through and slightly charred.

3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions until translucent. Stir in canned tomatoes and coconut milk; simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Add grilled chicken to the sauce along with additional curry powder if desired; simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes.

5. Adjust seasoning if necessary, add fresh cilantro before serving.

6. Serve alongside basmati rice or naan bread.

Helpful Notes:

– For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

– Adjust spice levels based on personal preference by modifying curry powder.

– Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

– Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)

– Calories: 380

– Sugar: 8g

– Sodium: 640mg

– Total Fat: 24g

– Saturated Fat: 12g

– Unsaturated Fat: 9g

– Trans Fat: 0g

– Carbohydrates: 18g

– Fiber: 3g

– Protein: 25g

– Cholesterol: 80mg

Preparation Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Yield: Serves 4

END OF TASTYYYYYYYY CARDDDDDDDDDD