Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
If there’s one dish that captures the heart and soul of comfort food, Chicken Tikka Masala is it. Dreamy chunks of marinated chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with just the right kick of spice—this is a meal that’s as perfect for cozy nights in as it is for impressing friends at your next dinner party. The fragrant blend of spices, tender bites of chicken, and luscious sauce will make you fall in love at first bite. Once you’ve tried a homemade Chicken Tikka Masala, you’ll never look at takeout the same way again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can create an unforgettable Chicken Tikka Masala. Each component in this dish brings its own special something, from vibrant color to deep flavor and irresistible texture.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The dark meat stays juicy and tender, even after simmering in the luscious sauce.
- Plain Greek yogurt: This forms the base of a tangy, creamy marinade that also helps tenderize the chicken.
- Lemon juice: Adds a bright pop of acidity, balancing the richness of the sauce and the marinade.
- Fresh ginger: Grated ginger brings a warm, zesty flavor that sings through the sauce.
- Garlic cloves: Minced garlic infuses the marinade and sauce with savory depth.
- Garam masala: This quintessential Indian spice blend creates the characteristic flavor and aroma of Chicken Tikka Masala.
- Ground cumin: Earthy, warm, and essential for building layers of flavor.
- Paprika: Adds a sweet smokiness and that beautiful brick-red hue to the dish.
- Turmeric: Just a touch, for sunny color and a slightly peppery undertone.
- Salt: A crucial enhancer for all the flavors, allowing them to pop.
- Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing; keeps everything silky and helps toast the spices.
- Onion: Sautéed until soft, this forms the aromatic backbone of the sauce.
- Ground coriander: Brings complex citrus notes that elevate the tomato sauce.
- Chili powder (optional): For those who love a little heat, this is your go-to addition.
- Tomato sauce: The foundation of that creamy, tangy curry sauce you crave.
- Heavy cream: Stirred in at the end for ultimate richness and smoothness.
- Fresh cilantro: The finishing touch—herbaceous and fresh, perfect for garnishing.
How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and salt in a large bowl. Add your bite-sized pieces of chicken, tossing to ensure every morsel is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour—though if you can plan ahead, an overnight rest transforms the chicken into something sensational with every bite infused with flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your largest skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces (shaking off excess marinade) and cook until browned and mostly cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Don’t crowd the pan and let those edges caramelize—this is where you start building that signature Chicken Tikka Masala tastiness! Once done, remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, toss in the remaining oil and your finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Sprinkle in the ground coriander and optional chili powder, stirring for a minute until the spices turn fragrant. This step makes your kitchen smell absolutely amazing!
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it gently bubble and simmer for around 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomato sauce to take on a deeper, richer note. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Chicken
Return the browned chicken and any collected juices back to the skillet, letting everything simmer together for another 10 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for 2 to 3 more minutes, just until the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and irresistibly smooth. Your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala is ready—just waiting for that fresh sprinkle of cilantro!
How to Serve Chicken Tikka Masala
Garnishes
No Chicken Tikka Masala is complete without a finishing touch of freshly chopped cilantro. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. For something extra special, a light drizzle of cream adds an Instagram-worthy swirl and a boost of richness.
Side Dishes
This dish begs to be served with fluffy basmati rice or soft, pillowy naan bread. Both are perfect for soaking up every drop of that velvety sauce. If you’re feeling extra festive, try serving with a side of cumin-spiced roasted vegetables or a crunchy cucumber salad to bring balance and freshness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Chicken Tikka Masala can be the star of your spread or part of an epic Indian-inspired feast. For a dinner party wow factor, serve it family-style in a vibrant serving bowl, surrounded by small bowls of chutneys, pickled onions, or roasted chickpeas. Or, spoon it over rice in individual bowls for a cozy, comforting presentation that lets the colors and aromas shine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any extra Chicken Tikka Masala keeps wonderfully in the fridge. After it cools completely, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The sauce’s flavors deepen over time, so your leftovers might taste even more amazing the next day!
Freezing
This dish is a meal-prepper’s dream because it freezes beautifully. Place cooled Chicken Tikka Masala in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Gently warm your Chicken Tikka Masala in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much. For a quick fix, you can also microwave portions in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?
Chicken Tikka Masala is usually mildly spiced, with the option to amp up the heat by adding more chili powder if you like it fiery. At home, you have full control—so start mild and adjust to your taste!
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While thighs remain juicier during cooking, chicken breasts will also work for Chicken Tikka Masala. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they tend to dry out a little more quickly.
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking to lighten the sauce or keep it dairy-free, use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream. Both options give wonderful creaminess without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time?
Yes! Chicken Tikka Masala tastes fantastic when made ahead—just cool it completely, then store in the fridge or freezer. Reheat gently and add a touch of fresh cilantro before serving for the best results.
Is Chicken Tikka Masala gluten-free?
It is naturally gluten-free, just watch for cross-contamination and make sure your side dishes (like naan) are also gluten-free if necessary.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade Chicken Tikka Masala. The fragrance as it simmers, the velvety sauce, the tender chicken—all add up to a dish that’s deeply comforting and bursting with flavor. I hope you treat yourself (and your loved ones) to this recipe soon. Once you’ve tasted it, I promise, it’ll become a beloved staple at your table!
Print
Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is a flavorful and creamy Indian dish that is sure to please your taste buds. Marinated chicken cooked in a spiced tomato-based sauce, this dish is perfect served with rice or naan.
Ingredients
Marinade:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon salt
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and salt. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour.
- Cook the chicken: Brown the chicken in oil, then set aside. Sauté onion, add spices, tomato sauce, and simmer. Return chicken to pan, add cream, and simmer until thick.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and coconut yogurt.
- Adjust spice levels to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1¼ cups
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
