Quick And Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe In 5 Steps

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular and flavorful dish that originated in the Indian subcontinent and has become beloved worldwide. It typically consists of tender, marinated pieces of chicken that are first grilled or roasted to achieve a smoky flavor and then simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce.

Here’s a simplified recipe for Chicken Tikka Masala:

1. Ingredients

– 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
– Cooked rice or naan bread (to serve)

2. Instructions

Step 1- Marinate the Chicken:

– In a bowl, combine yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
– Add the chicken pieces and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably longer (up to overnight).

Step 2- Cook the Chicken:

– Heat vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
– Add the marinated chicken pieces, shaking off excess marinade, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3- Prepare the Sauce:

– In the same pan, add chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
– Stir in diced tomatoes (along with their juices) and cook for another 5-7 minutes, breaking down the tomatoes with the back of a spoon.

Step 4- Combine Chicken and Sauce:

– Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan and stir to coat them with the tomato mixture.
– Pour in heavy cream or coconut milk, stirring well to combine. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5- Finish and Serve:

– Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
– Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro leaves.
– Serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala!