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Chicken Tikka Masala

Savory Chicken Tikka Masala That Melts in Your Mouth

Experience the delightful fusion of British and Indian flavors with Chicken Tikka Masala, a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: British-Indian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Boneless Chicken Thighs The main protein that stays juicy and absorbs the marinade beautifully.
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Adds tanginess and moisture; substitute with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons Garam Masala This essential spice blend brings depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Introduces a subtle smokiness and enticing color.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Provides a warm and earthy undertone.
  • 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger Infuses fresh flavor and a hint of heat.
  • 4 cloves Minced Garlic An aromatic must for enhancing overall taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Boosts the flavors of all ingredients.
For the Sauce
  • 1 large Diced Onion Serves as the base for the sauce.
  • 1 cup Tomato Puree Forms the curry base, adding acidity and rich flavor.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Ensures a rich and creamy sauce; swap with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Adds a burst of freshness; don’t skip this.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Oil Used for cooking the chicken and sautéing the aromatics.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • heavy-bottomed skillet
  • Blender

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garam masala, smoked paprika, ground cumin, minced garlic, minced ginger, and salt. Stir well to create a smooth marinade. Add the boneless chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; marinating overnight is recommended.
  2. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in some oil. Once shimmering, add the marinated chicken pieces in batches, searing for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add more oil if needed. Once hot, add diced onions, sautéing for about 5-6 minutes until golden and translucent.
  4. Add minced garlic, minced ginger, ground cumin, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the tomato puree, combining well with the sautéed onions and spices. Let simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
  6. Once thickened, pour sauce into a blender or use an immersion blender in the skillet. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  7. Add seared chicken back into the skillet with the smooth sauce. Stir to coat thoroughly and let simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes.
  8. After simmering, stir in heavy cream and let warm through for another 5 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 37gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavor. Opt for boneless chicken thighs for juicier texture. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to maintain even heat. Blend for smooth sauce. Adjust spice levels to preference.

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