Description
Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish that features grilled or roasted chicken pieces marinated in yogurt and a blend of aromatic spices. These pieces are then simmered in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. The combination of the smoky grilled chicken and the flavorful, spicy sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and exotic.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt (to taste)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine Marinade Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.
- Marinate Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
Cook the Chicken:
- Grill or Bake the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or oven (broiler) to high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers (if using a grill) or spread it on a baking sheet.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning halfway, until fully cooked and slightly charred. Remove from skewers and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Sauté Onions:
- In a large skillet, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Ginger:
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate Cream:
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes until thickened.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the grilled chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
Notes
Serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or roti to soak up the rich, creamy sauce. For extra depth, garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream or a squeeze of lime. Want to make it spicier? Add chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne to the sauce!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmered
- Cuisine: Indian
Keywords: Chicken Tikka Masala