Description
A rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish featuring tender marinated chicken simmered in a spiced tomato sauce with aromatic herbs, yogurt, and cream. Chicken Tikka Masala delivers a perfect balance of heat, tang, and comfort, ideal for serving with rice or naan.
Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter or ghee
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, and salt.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Heat butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until golden brown.
- Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
- Add marinated chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan.
Notes
Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
Grill or broil the marinated chicken first for a smoky flavor.
Adjust chili powder to control spice level.
Thicken sauce by simmering uncovered or adding a spoonful of tomato paste.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
