🍗 Easy Chicken Tikka Masala – 5 Simple Steps

Learn how to make the best, creamy Easy Chicken Tikka Masala at home with this easy, step-by-step recipe. Perfect for beginners and weeknights.

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that originated in Indian cuisine and has captured the hearts of food lovers all around the globe. Known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is often enjoyed with various sides and is perfect for both special occasions and casual family dinners. In this recipe, we will guide you through each step to ensure you can recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen.

Let’s dive deeper into the essential ingredients that make up this classic Chicken Tikka Masala and how each contributes to the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Marination time: 30 minutes (minimum) | Cook time: 30 minutes | Yields: 4 servings

The key to a flavorful Chicken Tikka Masala starts with the marinade. Marinating the chicken allows it to absorb the spices and yogurt, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. The yogurt not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds a rich creaminess to the dish.

Marinating the chicken for a longer time, even up to overnight, can enhance the taste even further. For best results, consider using boneless chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier than breasts.

Ingredients for Chicken Tikka Masala

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 pounds (approx. 680g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup plain Yogurt (full-fat preferred)
• 2 teaspoons fresh Ginger-Garlic Paste
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
• 1 teaspoon Salt

For the Masala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil or Ghee
• 1 large Yellow Onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh Ginger-Garlic Paste
• 1 (15-ounce) can of Tomato Sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup Chicken Broth (or water)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 tablespoon Garam Masala
• 1 teaspoon Sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chopped Cilantro (for garnish)

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Instructions for Chicken Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate and Sear the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine all the Marinade ingredients with the chicken. Mix well and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the marinated chicken and sear until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Tikka Masala Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining oil/ghee to the same pan.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (5-7 minutes).
3. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the canned tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir in the Garam Masala, sugar, and salt.
5. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, cover partially, and let it cook for 10 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 3: Combine and Finish

1. Stir the Heavy Cream into the sauce until fully combined.
2. Return the seared chicken pieces to the pan.
3. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow it to absorb the sauce.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions (USA Focus)

• Serve immediately over a bed of warm Basmati Rice.
• Pair with warm store-bought Naan Bread (Garlic Naan is a popular choice).
• Garnish generously with fresh Cilantro.

When preparing the masala sauce, the base of chopped onions sautéed until golden brown is crucial. This step develops the sweetness of the onions, which balances the spices.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices. You can add additional ingredients like chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or even some diced bell peppers or peas for added texture and flavor.

When it comes to serving, Chicken Tikka Masala pairs beautifully with sides like fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce, or naan bread, perfect for dipping. You might also consider a fresh green salad or a cooling cucumber raita to balance the spices.

Consider trying different variations of Chicken Tikka Masala. You can use paneer for a vegetarian version or adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences. Each variation brings a unique twist while still keeping the dish recognizable.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The process of cooking Chicken Tikka Masala is about layering flavors and enjoying the aroma that fills your kitchen. Gather your loved ones, and enjoy this Indian classic together!