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Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
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This Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is a hearty and comforting Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, it combines bold flavors with simple preparation and is adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 150g plain yogurt
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala (divided)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Sauce Base

  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

Spices and Tomatoes

  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala (remaining)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 400g tomato puree or crushed tomatoes (about 1 2/3 cups)

Finishing

  • 120ml heavy cream or coconut milk (about 1/2 cup)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, salt, half of the garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for more tenderness and flavor.
  2. Prepare the Sauce Base: Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onions until golden brown. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
  3. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in cumin, coriander, remaining garam masala, and chili powder. Mix well, then pour in the tomato puree or crushed tomatoes. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens and oil begins to separate, about 10 minutes.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Add marinated chicken along with its juices to the sauce. Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  5. Finish with Cream and Cilantro: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk until the sauce is silky and rich. Simmer for a few more minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken longer for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
  • Using chicken thighs is preferred for juicier, more flavorful results.
  • Don’t skip caramelizing the onions to deepen the sauce’s flavor.
  • Simmer sauce gently on low heat to let spices bloom fully.
  • Add fresh cilantro at the end to brighten and balance the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Tikka Masala, Indian Chicken Recipe, Easy Indian Dinner, Creamy Chicken Curry, Indian Comfort Food

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/easy-chicken-tikka-masala-recipe/