Authentic and Flavorful Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons coriander
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 large can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • 2 cups Basmati rice, for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the turmeric, cumin, paprika, and coriander. Add the seasoned chicken and toss to coat. Set aside.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and onion. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it is no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, sugar, and chili powder (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
  7. While the sauce is simmering, cook the Basmati rice according to the package instructions.
  8. Once the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  9. Serve the chicken tikka masala over the cooked rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
  • Replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a vegetarian version.
  • Add vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms to the dish for extra texture and flavor.
  • Experiment with different spices like garam masala, cardamom, or cinnamon to customize the flavor profile.
  • For a healthier option, substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
  • Try marinating the chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, and spices for a few hours before cooking to enhance the tenderness and flavor.
  • Grill the chicken tikka before adding it to the sauce for a smoky flavor.
  • Add a splash of lime juice or a dollop of mango chutney for a tangy twist.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder or add chopped green chilies.
  • Serve the chicken tikka masala with naan bread or roti instead of rice.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the rich and vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine with this homemade Chicken Tikka Masala recipe. This dish is an alluring blend of juicy chicken and a creamy, aromatic sauce with a hint of spice. Infused with a medley of spices such as turmeric, cumin, and paprika, it brings an authentic Indian dining experience to your own kitchen. Finished off with a garnishing of fresh cilantro, this Chicken Tikka Masala pairs perfectly with warm Basmati rice. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for a midweek dinner or a weekend treat. The tantalizing aroma and mouthwatering flavors of this dish are sure to impress your family and friends. Expect a comforting and hearty meal that's brimming with culture and tradition. Enjoy the process of creating this beautiful dish and the delightful journey of tastes it brings.

Common questions

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take longer to cook.
  2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option? Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative. However, keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish.
  3. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken? No, marinating the chicken is not necessary for this recipe. Coating the chicken in the spice mixture before cooking will ensure flavorful results.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the chicken tikka masala ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
  5. What can I serve with chicken tikka masala? Chicken tikka masala pairs well with Basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber raita or a fresh salad.
  6. How spicy is this dish? The level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the chili powder. Alternatively, if you enjoy spicier food, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting Board - Use a cutting board to safely chop and prepare the ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is essential for cutting the chicken and chopping onions.
  • Large Skillet - Use a large skillet to cook the chicken tikka masala sauce.
  • Wooden Spoon - A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the ingredients in the skillet.
  • Measuring Spoons - Use measuring spoons to accurately measure the spices and seasonings.
  • Grater - A grater is needed to grate the fresh ginger.
  • Serving Platter - Transfer the cooked chicken tikka masala to a serving platter.
  • Rice Cooker or Pot - Use a rice cooker or pot to cook the Basmati rice.
  • Serving Bowls or Plates - Serve the chicken tikka masala and rice in separate bowls or plates.
  • Garnishing Tool - Use a garnishing tool, such as kitchen scissors, to chop fresh cilantro for garnish.

Origin stories

Chicken Tikka Masala, a dish beloved by many across the globe, is often assumed to be a traditional Indian dish due to its flavorful blend of spices. However, its actual origins are a bit more complicated and not entirely clear. One popular tale attributes the creation of Chicken Tikka Masala to an inventive chef in Glasgow, Scotland in the 1960s. According to the story, a customer complained about his chicken tikka being too dry, and the quick-thinking chef responded by adding a luscious tomato-cream sauce to the dish, creating what we now know as Chicken Tikka Masala. Whether this tale is entirely accurate or not, it's internationally acknowledged that this dish, with its rich and creamy sauce and savory spiced chicken, is a delicious testament to culinary creativity.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.