Succulent grilled chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy, and aromatic tomato-based sauce, delivering a perfect blend of spices and flavors. This dish is a popular favorite worldwide, known for its bold flavors and comforting texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic flavors: A traditional spice blend gives it an authentic Indian restaurant-style taste.
- Creamy and rich texture: The tomato-based sauce with cream and cashews provides a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Customizable heat levels: Adjust the spice according to your preference.
- Perfect for meal prep: The marinated chicken can be prepped ahead of time.
- Pairs well with various sides: Enjoy with naan, rice, or flatbreads.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1½ lbs (700 grams) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1 to 1½ inch pieces
- ½ to 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon oil (preferably mustard oil)
- ½ cup thick Greek yogurt or hung curd
- 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
For the Masala (Sauce):
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2 green cardamoms
- 2 cloves
- 1½ cups finely chopped onions
- 1½ tablespoons ginger garlic paste
- 1½ cups tomato puree (fresh or canned)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 12 whole cashew nuts
- 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
- Salt to taste
Directions
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, salt, lemon juice, and oil. Mix well.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight for best results.
Prepare the Masala (Sauce):
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamoms, and cloves. Sauté until aromatic.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
- Add tomato puree, red chili powder, garam masala, and coriander powder. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.
- Blend cashew nuts with a little water to make a smooth paste. Add this to the masala and cook for a few minutes, stirring continuously.
Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 460°F (240°C) or prepare a grill.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, shaking off excess marinade.
- Place the skewers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake or grill for 9 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and slightly charred.
Combine and Serve:
- Add the grilled chicken pieces to the prepared masala. Stir well to combine.
- Crush kasuri methi between your palms and add to the curry.
- Pour in heavy cream and mix well. Simmer for a few minutes until the chicken absorbs the flavors.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with butter naan, basmati rice, or your choice of flatbread.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marination time)
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the chicken tikka masala in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain consistency.
FAQs
How spicy is chicken tikka masala?
The spice level can be adjusted by reducing or increasing the chili powder.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs provide a juicier and more flavorful result.
What can I serve with chicken tikka masala?
It pairs well with naan, basmati rice, or paratha.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute yogurt and cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate overnight, but a minimum of 30 minutes will still work.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, both the marinated chicken and masala sauce can be made ahead of time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, chicken tikka masala is naturally gluten-free.
Can I cook the chicken on a stovetop?
Yes, you can cook the chicken in a pan over medium heat until fully cooked.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Let the sauce simmer longer or add a bit more cashew paste.
Can I use store-bought tikka masala sauce?
Yes, but homemade sauce offers fresher and richer flavors.
Conclusion
Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful dish packed with bold flavors and a creamy texture, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.