Chicken Tikka Masala

by

Creamy, Bold & Comforting Classic

If you’re craving something rich, cozy, and packed with flavor, Chicken Tikka Masala is always a winning choice. Tender marinated chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce creates the ultimate comfort food dinner. This easy homemade version brings restaurant-style flavor right to your kitchen — perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or impressing guests without spending hours cooking. The warm spices, velvety sauce, and juicy chicken make it ideal served over fluffy rice or with warm naan. Best of all, it tastes even better the next day, making it a busy cook’s dream meal.

⏱️ Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Marinate Time: 30 minutes (or up to overnight)
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings

📝 Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Masala Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Grater (for ginger)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken.
    In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices. Add chicken and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for deeper flavor). 😊
  2. Cook the chicken.
    Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly charred and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté aromatics.
    In the same pan, add remaining oil. Cook diced onion for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and ginger; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Build the sauce.
    Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric. Toast spices for 30 seconds. Add tomato sauce and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Make it creamy.
    Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. The sauce should become smooth and rich with a deep orange color. ✨
  6. Combine and simmer.
    Return chicken to the pan. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken beautifully.
  7. Garnish and serve.
    Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or with naan.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Make Ahead: The flavor deepens overnight — perfect for meal prep.
  • Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for heavy cream.
  • Extra Smoky Flavor: Broil the marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes before adding to the sauce.
  • Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.

🔄 Variations

  • Add spinach for a creamy tikka masala twist.
  • Swap chicken thighs for extra juicy texture.
  • Make it dairy-free using coconut yogurt and coconut cream.
  • Adjust spice level with cayenne or fresh chili.

❓ FAQ

Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?
It’s mildly spiced with warm flavors. You can increase heat with chili powder or cayenne.

Can I grill the chicken instead?
Absolutely! Grilling adds authentic char and deeper flavor.

What’s the best side dish?
Basmati rice, garlic naan, or even roasted vegetables pair beautifully.

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