Description
Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich and flavorful Indian-inspired dish featuring tender, marinated chicken thighs simmered in a creamy tomato sauce infused with a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe combines tangy yogurt marinade with a luxurious sauce that pairs beautifully with rice or naan bread.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and mix thoroughly to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour, or overnight for enhanced flavor penetration.
- Sauté Onions: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh ginger. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the aromatics.
- Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until all sides are browned and the chicken is nearly cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Simmer with Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Cream and Final Simmer: Stir in the heavy cream, allowing the sauce to become rich and creamy. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Garnish the Chicken Tikka Masala with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot over steamed rice or alongside warm naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Using chicken thighs instead of breast keeps the dish moist and flavorful.
- Marinating overnight enhances the depth of flavor but at least 1 hour is sufficient if short on time.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a yogurt-based sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
