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Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala
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Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful Indian-inspired curry featuring tender marinated chicken pieces cooked in a rich, spiced tomato cream sauce. This comforting and aromatic dish balances smoky, tangy, and creamy elements for a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken and Marinade

  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Salt, to taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or ghee)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 400g (14 oz) pureed tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • Salt, to taste

For Garnish and Serving

  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • Basmati rice or naan bread
  • Optional: pinch of sugar, for balancing acidity

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-fry the marinated chicken pieces until cooked through and slightly charred on the edges, adding a smoky depth characteristic of Chicken Tikka Masala.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: Heat oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onion until translucent and golden. Add garlic, ginger, and the spices (garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric). Cook for a minute until fragrant. Pour in the pureed tomatoes and simmer gently until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.
  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken pieces into the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream and simmer on low heat for a few minutes to blend all flavors beautifully.
  5. Final Touches: Adjust seasoning with salt (and a pinch of sugar if the sauce is too acidic). Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or your preferred sides.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
  • Use freshly ground spices for a more aromatic and authentic taste.
  • Do not skip searing the chicken; the char adds an essential smoky flavor.
  • Simmer the sauce gently on low heat to prevent cream from curdling and achieve a smooth texture.
  • If the sauce tastes too acidic, add a small pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
  • Customize spice levels by adjusting chili powder or adding fresh green chilies.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
  • Chicken can be grilled for a smoky flavor or pan-fried for convenience.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Tikka Masala, Indian curry, creamy chicken curry, spiced tomato sauce, grilled chicken, gluten-free Indian recipe

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