Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most beloved dishes in Indian cuisine, combining tender marinated chicken with a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. This flavorful dish offers a beautiful balance of spices, tang from the yogurt, and a subtle heat from the jalapeno, making it a favorite for anyone craving bold, comforting flavors. Traditionally served over basmati rice, Chicken Tikka Masala is an indulgent dish that’s sure to impress at any dinner table.
The beauty of this dish lies in its marinade, which tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with an aromatic blend of spices like cumin, paprika, garam masala, and ginger. Grilling the chicken before adding it to the rich tomato sauce enhances its flavor, creating a delicious smoky undertone. The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream and fresh cilantro, brings everything together, making every bite feel luxurious. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, Chicken Tikka Masala is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Tikka Masala is a perfect blend of bold spices, creamy textures, and a hint of heat, making it a dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes. The marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors, and the grilling process adds a smoky depth that enhances the overall taste. The creamy tomato sauce is comforting and indulgent, with the addition of heavy cream making it rich and smooth. The dish is incredibly versatile, so whether you love your food spicy or mild, you can adjust the heat level to your liking. Perfectly paired with basmati rice or naan bread, this dish offers a full, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Plain yogurt
- Lemon juice
- Ground cumin
- Paprika
- Garam masala
- Ground ginger
- Salt
- Garlic
For the Sauce:
- Butter
- Jalapeno pepper
- Garlic
- Tomato sauce
- Heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro
Variations
There are several ways to customize Chicken Tikka Masala to suit your preferences:
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of jalapeno or add chili powder to make the dish spicier.
- Vegetarian version: Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Grill or oven-bake: Instead of grilling the chicken, you can roast it in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes for a more hands-off cooking method.
- Different cream alternatives: If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add vegetables: Add bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the sauce to incorporate some extra veggies into the dish.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, garam masala, ground ginger, salt, and minced garlic. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to high heat. If you don’t have a grill, you can also use a grill pan or broiler.
Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
After the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto skewers. Discard the marinade, as it’s no longer needed.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the skewered chicken on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until the juices run clear and the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skewers and set aside.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
Melt butter in a large, heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped jalapeno pepper and garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Add the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Add the Chicken and Cream
Once the sauce has simmered, add the grilled chicken pieces, heavy cream, and chopped cilantro to the skillet. Stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up the flavors of the sauce.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over steamed rice or with naan bread. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Marinate the chicken for longer: For the most flavorful chicken, marinate it for at least 4 hours or even overnight if possible.
- Grill the chicken for extra flavor: Grilling the chicken gives it a smoky char that enhances the overall taste. If you’re using a broiler or grill pan, be sure to check that the chicken is cooked through before adding it to the sauce.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of jalapeno or remove the seeds before adding it to the sauce.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger bring more robust flavor compared to pre-ground versions.
- Balance the cream: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little water or chicken broth.
How to Serve
Chicken Tikka Masala is traditionally served over basmati rice, which helps soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also pair it with naan bread for an extra indulgent meal. A side of cool cucumber raita or a simple green salad balances out the richness of the dish. If you’re looking to make it a complete meal, try serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or some sautéed spinach.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish ahead of time, Chicken Tikka Masala freezes well. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over medium heat.
Reheating
Reheat the Chicken Tikka Masala on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or cream to loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe and will provide even more flavor and juiciness due to their higher fat content.
2. Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, you can bake or broil the chicken instead. Simply place the chicken on a baking sheet and cook at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.
3. Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?
Yes, to increase the heat, add more jalapenos or use a spicier variety of chili peppers. You can also add extra chili powder or cayenne pepper.
4. Can I use coconut milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free version of Chicken Tikka Masala.
5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with paneer, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
6. How can I make the chicken more tender?
Marinating the chicken for a longer period helps tenderize it. You can also use chicken thighs for an even juicier result.
7. What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?
Serve it with basmati rice, naan, or even roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
8. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Reheat the dish before serving.
9. Can I use pre-made tikka masala sauce?
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought tikka masala sauce, but the homemade version adds more depth and freshness to the dish.
10. How can I make the dish less rich?
For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream and add a bit more tomato sauce to balance the richness.
Conclusion
Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender grilled chicken with a creamy, aromatic sauce. The marination process infuses the chicken with spices that complement the rich tomato sauce, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it on a special occasion or enjoying a weeknight dinner, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the heart of Indian cuisine. Pair it with basmati rice or naan for a truly indulgent experience.
PrintChicken Tikka Masala: A Flavorful, Creamy Indian Classic
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorful and creamy dish with grilled chicken marinated in a blend of spices, yogurt, and lemon juice, served in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce. This popular Indian recipe is perfect served over rice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 jalapeno pepper, finely chopped
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, garam masala, ginger, salt, and garlic. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat the grill for high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Thread the chicken onto skewers and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken until juices run clear, about 5 minutes on each side.
- Prepare the Sauce: Melt butter in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Add jalapeno and garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add tomato sauce to the skillet and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Finish the Dish: Add grilled chicken, heavy cream, and cilantro to the skillet. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the chicken tikka masala over rice.
Notes
- For extra spice, you can add more jalapenos or chili powder.
- You can substitute grilled chicken with baked chicken or cook the chicken directly in the sauce if preferred.
- Serve with naan or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 35 minutes