Chicken Tikka Masala is a globally beloved dish with roots in South Asian cuisine, featuring grilled chunks of chicken enveloped in a creamy, richly spiced tomato sauce. This dish combines the charred flavor of chicken tikka with the savory richness of masala sauce, making it a favorite in restaurants and homes worldwide. The sauce, with its blend of tomatoes, cream, and spices, offers a perfect balance of tangy and spicy flavors. Perfect for a cozy dinner, Chicken Tikka Masala is often served with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. It’s a comforting meal that satisfies with its depth of flavor and creamy texture, ideal for those who enjoy a hearty and aromatic curry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 500g chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- Salt to taste
For the sauce:
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, ginger-garlic paste, and salt. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Grill the marinated chicken pieces until they are charred and cooked through. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a pan, add onions and sauté until they are soft and golden. Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, and paprika. Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce and let them simmer together for another 5-10 minutes.
- Stir in the cream and cook for a few minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by rice or naan.
Unlock the secrets to creating the iconic Chicken Tikka Masala with our comprehensive guide. This dish consists of marinated and grilled chicken pieces smothered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with Indian spices. Our step-by-step instructions will help you marinate the chicken to perfection, achieving that essential tikka flavor, and then simmer it in a sauce that balances creamy richness with a touch of tanginess from tomatoes and a hint of sweetness. The result is a deeply satisfying dish that pairs wonderfully with rice or naan, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
