Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to India with this mouthwatering Chicken Tikka Masala recipe! Bursting with rich flavors and creamy textures, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you'll find that creating this iconic dish at home is easier than you think. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform your kitchen into an Indian restaurant and savor every bite of this aromatic delight. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the secret of making the best Chicken Tikka Masala that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 tablespoons tikka masala
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken breast, yogurt, and 2 tablespoons of tikka masala. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the other ingredients. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set aside.
- After the marination time is complete, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5-7 minutes or until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the marinated chicken to the skillet, including all the marinade. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink on the outside.
- Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- After 10 minutes, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix well until the cream is fully incorporated into the sauce. Allow the chicken tikka masala to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt to taste.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is creamy and flavorful, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve the chicken tikka masala hot, accompanied by basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Don’t rush the marination process! Allowing the chicken to soak in the yogurt and tikka masala for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) will enhance the flavors and tenderness of the meat.
- Sauté the Onions Well: Take your time when sautéing the onions. A good 5-7 minutes will bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to your sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and cilantro. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish and provide a vibrant flavor that dried alternatives simply can’t match.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to reduce the amount of tikka masala or add more cream to balance the heat. For those who love a kick, add some chili powder or fresh green chilies.
- Serve with the Right Accompaniments: Pair your Chicken Tikka Masala with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of cucumber raita can also help cool things down if the spice level is high!
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor. Don’t skip this final touch before serving!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 529kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
