Description
A flavorful and creamy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe with tender marinated chicken in a rich tomato-based sauce, served over fragrant basmati rice. This classic Indian dish is easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked basmati rice
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, and salt. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- Cook the Chicken: Brown marinated chicken in batches in a skillet. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Sauté onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, garam masala, and cayenne. Add tomato sauce, simmer, then stir in cream. Return chicken to the pan and simmer until cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve over basmati rice.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- Marinating overnight enhances flavor but is optional.
- Pairs well with naan or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
