Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish with origins in the Indian subcontinent, featuring tender pieces of chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and served in a rich, creamy sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to recreate the authentic taste of Chicken Tikka Masala in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the world of Indian cuisine, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and satisfy your cravings for a delicious homemade meal.
Ingredients
- Meat:
- 2 lbs Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- Produce:
- 1/2 cup Onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Ginger, minced
- 1 tsp Coriander leaves, chopped
- Canned Goods:
- 1 cup Tomato puree
- Baking & Spices:
- 2 1/4 tbsp Masala seasoning
- 1 tbsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 2 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Kashmiri chili powder
- 2 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds
- Dairy:
- 2 tbsp Ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/3 cup Heavy cream
- 3/4 cup Plain yogurt
- Liquids:
- 1/4 cup Water
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the plain yogurt, Kashmiri chili powder, turmeric powder, masala seasoning, minced ginger, chopped coriander leaves, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and cumin seeds and sauté until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet, along with any excess marinade. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Prepare the Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, add the tomato puree to the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream to the skillet and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the Chicken Tikka Masala with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice, naan bread, or your favorite side dishes.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Kashmiri chili powder and masala seasoning to suit your taste preferences. For a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder, or increase it for extra heat.
- Grilled Chicken: For an authentic smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken thighs on a barbecue grill before adding them to the sauce.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
- Keto Version: Replace the tomato puree with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes with no added sugar. Use full-fat Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt, and opt for heavy cream to keep the dish keto-friendly.
- Low-Carb Version: Omit the onions and reduce the amount of tomato puree to lower the carb content of the dish. You can also use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast if you prefer. However, chicken thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful in this dish.
Q: Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken in advance. You can also make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before reheating and serving.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala? A: Chicken Tikka Masala pairs well with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber raita or mixed vegetable salad for a complete meal.
Q: Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy? A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your liking by controlling the amount of chili powder and masala seasoning used in the recipe. You can make it mild or spicy according to your preference.
With its aromatic spices, tender chicken, and creamy sauce, Chicken Tikka Masala is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or entertaining guests, this easy recipe is sure to please. By following these simple steps and incorporating your own variations, you can create a delicious Chicken Tikka Masala that will impress even the most discerning palates. So fire up your stove, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of India with this mouthwatering dish!
