Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Chicken Tikka Masala is an iconic comfort dish that combines juicy marinated chicken tikka with a rich, aromatic curry sauce—and there’s nothing quite like making it from scratch in your own kitchen. It’s every bit as decadent and cozy as your favorite Indian restaurant version, but with the pure, crave-worthy flavors you can create at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Chicken Tikka Masala brings something special—whether it’s adding creaminess, color, or irresistible aroma. Don’t be intimidated by the list; these simple pantry staples and easy-to-find spices work together like culinary magic.

• Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless): These stay wonderfully moist and succulent even at high heat, making them essential for that signature char and tenderness.
• Plain Full-Fat Yogurt: Acts as the base of your marinade, tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with tangy depth.
• Fresh Garlic and Ginger: The dynamic duo of Indian cooking, providing zippy freshness and a glorious, lingering aroma.
• Spices (Garam Masala, Cumin, Coriander, Paprika, Turmeric, Cardamom, Cayenne, Black Pepper): These create layers of warmth, complexity, and vibrant color throughout both the marinade and sauce.
• Lemon Juice: Brings brightness to the marinade and helps balance the richness.
• Onion: Forms the sweet, mellow heart of the curry base.
• Tomato Passata: Delivers a deep, velvety body to your sauce, giving that gorgeous “tikka masala” color.
• Heavy Cream: Adds the creamy silkiness we all crave in this curry—or swap for coconut cream if you prefer!
• Vegetable Oil and Butter: Used for sautéing, adding lovely richness and aiding that saucy, glossy finish.
• Sugar: Just a pinch, to round out the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Basmati Rice: For serving, to soak up every drop of that dreamy sauce.

Variations

One of the best things about Chicken Tikka Masala is just how versatile it is—there are so many ways to make it your own! You can tweak the ingredients, adjust the heat, or cater it to special diets to perfectly suit your table.

• Vegetarian Tikka Masala: Swap the chicken for paneer cubes, roasted chickpeas, or hearty roasted vegetables for a plant-based delight.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut yogurt and coconut cream instead of dairy for a totally creamy, lactose-free version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Extra Spicy: Bump up the cayenne or add fresh green chilies for an extra spicy kick that’ll warm you up on the coldest day.
• Lighter Version: Cut back on the cream and butter, and use non-fat yogurt in the marinade for a lighter—but still flavorful—curry.

How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing the yogurt, garlic, ginger, spices, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and vegetable oil in a large bowl. Toss in the chicken thighs, making sure every piece gets thoroughly coated in that gorgeously aromatic marinade. For the most flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, let the chicken marinate overnight—but three hours will still do the trick if you’re short on time.

Step 2: Sear and Char the Chicken Tikka

Heat a nonstick pan over high heat and add a slick of oil. Cook the marinated chicken in batches, spreading it out so it can char nicely on both sides. You’re looking for a touch of smoky, caramelized crust (don’t worry if the chicken isn’t totally cooked through—it’ll finish in the sauce!). Remove to a bowl and repeat with the rest of the chicken.

Step 3: Make the Curry Sauce

After wiping your skillet clean, reduce the heat to medium-high and melt the oil and butter together. Add the onions, ginger, and salt, cooking until the onions turn deeply fragrant and golden. Stir in the garlic and paprika, cooking for another couple of minutes, then sprinkle in your curry sauce spices. Let everything sizzle so the flavors bloom—it’s irresistible!

Step 4: Simmer, Blend, and Finish the Sauce

Pour in the tomato passata and water, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook low and slow until it all melds together. Now for the restaurant touch: after simmering, transfer the sauce to a bowl and use a stick blender to puree until stunningly smooth (this step is pure magic!). Return the sauce to the pan, add cream, sugar, and more butter, stirring until the sauce is dreamy and silky.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the charred chicken tikka pieces back into the sauce and simmer gently for a few minutes until they’re fully cooked and juicy. Sprinkle with a pinch of garam masala for extra aroma and serve your Chicken Tikka Masala hot over basmati rice. Don’t forget fresh cilantro or a side of warm naan for the full experience!

How to Serve Chicken Tikka Masala

Garnishes

Finish your Chicken Tikka Masala with a flurry of fresh cilantro leaves and maybe a swirl of cream right over the top. If you like a bit of zip and color, add thinly sliced red onions or a sprinkle of chili flakes for that wow factor.

Side Dishes

This dish is meant to be scooped up with fluffy basmati rice or soft, pillowy naan bread. If you’re really going for a cozy spread, serve it with cooling cucumber raita, crunchy kachumber salad, or even a quick homemade flatbread!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Chicken Tikka Masala in individual bowls for a modern, homey feel or go family-style in a big, beautiful serving dish at the center of your table. For get-togethers, offer a “build-your-own” naan wrap bar with bowls of curry, rice, and fun toppings—it’s interactive and always a crowd pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Tikka Masala keeps exceptionally well for up to 3 days in the fridge. Store any leftovers in an airtight container—sometimes, it’s even tastier the next day, as the spices continue to bloom and intensify!

Freezing

You can freeze Chicken Tikka Masala for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and be sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Gently reheat the curry in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if it’s thickened up too much. Top with a fresh pinch of garam masala to brighten the flavors; microwave reheating is quick too, just stir a few times for even warmth.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for that cozy, deeply satisfying curry you can share with friends and family, Chicken Tikka Masala is it. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your go-to comfort recipe—once you taste how incredible it is made fresh, you’ll want to celebrate every occasion (or even just Tuesday night!) with a big bowl of homemade curry. Enjoy every saucy, spiced bite!

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