Classic Chicken Tikka Masala

Tikka Masala is not just a dish; it is a global phenomenon that captures the essence of Indian cuisine while embracing the tastes of the world. This beloved recipe has transcended cultural boundaries, becoming a staple in restaurants and homes alike. Its rich, creamy sauce and aromatic spices make Tikka Masala a favorite for many, drawing in both seasoned food enthusiasts and those new to Indian cooking. In this comprehensive culinary guide, we will explore the fascinating history of Tikka Masala, its essential components, and how you can recreate this restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen. We’ll break down the recipe into manageable steps, ensuring that even novice cooks can master this delightful dish.

Classic Chicken Tikka Masala

Embark on a culinary journey with this deliciously authentic Tikka Masala recipe that captures the heart of Indian cuisine. Discover its rich history and essential ingredients, from tender marinated chicken to the creamy, spiced masala sauce. This guide simplifies the cooking process into manageable steps, making it accessible for novice cooks. Impress your family and friends with this iconic dish that blends tradition and flavor in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, Tikka Masala is sure to be a crowd-pleaser in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

200g plain yogurt

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

Salt to taste

For the Masala Sauce:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon garam masala

400g canned diced tomatoes

150ml cream (heavy or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Salt to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

- In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.

- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they're well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight for deeper flavor).

Cook the Chicken:

- Preheat your grill or oven to high (around 200°C/400°F).

- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on skewer sticks or a baking sheet. Grill for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through and charred slightly on the edges. Set aside.

Prepare the Masala Sauce:

- In a large pan or skillet, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.

- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

- Add the ground coriander, cumin, and garam masala, stirring for another minute.

Combine Tomatoes and Cream:

- Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and mix well. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce.

- Stir in the cream, season with salt to taste, and allow to simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is rich and creamy.

Mix in Chicken:

- Add the grilled chicken pieces into the sauce, stirring to coat them evenly. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Serve:

- Garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 4