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Chicken Tikka Masala Pin

Delicious Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that combines tender, marinated chicken with a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this dish has become a global favorite, often referred to as the "national dish" of the UK. Making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and tailor the spice level to your liking, ensuring a restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Curry, Tikka Masala
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 380kcal

Equipment

Chopping Board
Chef's Knife
Heatproof Bowl
Skillet

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1.5 lbs 700g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger minced
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger minced
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken with yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Mix well, cover, and marinate for 1 hour (or overnight).
  • Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a grill pan or skillet. Cook the chicken until charred and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Set aside.
  • Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté onions until golden. Add garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes.
  • Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked chicken to the sauce. Pour in the cream and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  • Garnish and Serve: Stir in cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Notes

  • Spice Level: Adjust the paprika and chili powder to suit your taste.
  • Make Ahead: The curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
  • Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 120mg | Sodium: 500mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g