Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe | Best chicken tikka masala recipe

Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful dish that brings together succulent grilled chicken and a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce. It's a true celebration of flavors and a perfect representation of the rich culinary heritage of India. This recipe will guide you through creating an authentic and delicious Chicken Tikka Masala that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tikka:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder (for color)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Tikka Masala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
• Salt to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinating the Chicken:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.

• Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.

• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. For the best results, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

2. Grilling the Chicken:

• Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.

• Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, shaking off any excess marinade.

• Grill or broil the chicken skewers for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they are cooked through and have a slight char.

• Remove the cooked chicken from the skewers and set aside.

3. Preparing the Tikka Masala Sauce:

• In a large skillet or saucepan, heat vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat.

• Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

• Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

• Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring well to combine.

• Season the sauce with ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Adjust the spices according to your taste preference.

• Cook the sauce on medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld.

• Stir in the heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk, simmering the sauce for another 5 minutes.

4. Combining the Chicken and Sauce:

• Add the grilled chicken pieces to the Tikka Masala sauce, stirring gently to coat the chicken evenly.

• Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.

• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed

5. Serving:

• Remove the Chicken Tikka Masala from the heat.

• Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor and color.

• Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot, accompanied by steamed basmati rice, naan bread, or roti.

Enjoy the Delectable Delight!

Now that you've prepared the flavorful Chicken Tikka Masala, it's time to savor the rich and aromatic taste of this Indian delicacy. The tender chicken combined with the creamy, spiced sauce creates a delightful culinary experience that's sure to impress your guests or family. Share this beloved dish with your loved ones and enjoy the warmth of Indian flavors in the comfort of your own home!

FAQs

1. Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?
The level of spiciness in Chicken Tikka Masala can vary based on individual preferences and the recipe used. However, it's generally known for its mild to moderately spicy flavor.

2. Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala without yogurt or cream?
Yes, for a dairy-free version, you can substitute yogurt and cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, which adds a creamy texture and richness to the sauce.

3. What's the best way to cook the marinated chicken?
Grilling or broiling the marinated chicken adds a smoky flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish. However, you can also cook the chicken on a stovetop using a skillet or in the oven.

4. What are some popular side dishes to serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?
Apart from basmati rice and naan bread, you can serve Chicken Tikka Masala with other Indian side dishes like vegetable biryani, garlic naan, or cucumber raita.

5. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts for Chicken Tikka Masala. However, keep in mind that chicken thighs tend to be more tender and juicy, making them a preferred choice for this dish.