Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe – Dish Journal

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish, vibrant in color and bursting with flavor. But let’s not forget, it’s not just the star of the show. When planning your meal, consider adding some sumptuous side dishes to elevate the experience. Here are a few fantastic options:

1. Basmati Rice Nothing complements Chicken Tikka Masala quite like fluffy basmati rice. The rice soaks up the rich sauce beautifully. Plus, it creates the perfect canvas for that aromatic curry.

2. Naan Bread Warm naan is a must-have with this dish. You can scoop up the masala and experience the perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you choose plain, garlic, or butter naan, it adds a delightful touch.

3. Cucumber Raita A chilled cucumber raita offers a refreshing contrast to the spices in Chicken Tikka Masala. The yogurt cools the palate and balances the heat of the dish.

4. Roasted Vegetables Roasted veggies bring another layer of flavor and texture. Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini roasted with a light seasoning complement the Indian spices beautifully.

You’ll Also Like These Recipes

• Chicken Shawarma Recipe
• Creamy Tortellini Soup
• Slow Cooker Chili

Ah, Chicken Tikka Masala! It’s one of those classic dishes that instantly transports me to my favorite Indian restaurant, reminding me of cozy meals with friends. You know the ones where the conversation flows as easily as the curry? The wonderful thing about this dish is it can be made right in your own kitchen, and trust me, it’s simpler than you might think!

In this guide, I’ll share my easy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe, complete with tips, side dish suggestions, and much more. This is not just any recipe; it’s a delightfully delicious opportunity to impress your guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home. And no, you won’t need to become a spice master overnight! Let’s dive in.

What is Easy Chicken Tikka Masala?

Easy Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful dish that combines marinated chicken with a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. It cuts the usual culinary gymnastics down to a few straightforward steps, proving that anyone can create this restaurant-quality dish at home.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe breaks down the cooking process into manageable steps. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to achieve delicious results. The preparation can be done in under an hour!

2. Flavorful Ingredients: With a balance of spices like garam masala, turmeric, and cumin, each bite bursts with flavor. The use of fresh ginger and garlic enhances the authenticity and adds depth.

3. Versatile and Customizable: The beauty of this recipe is in its adaptability. You can replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Want more heat? Add extra chili powder!

4. Make Ahead and Freeze-Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare a batch and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat and serve with your favorite sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

Here’s a handy list of ingredients to whip up this delightful dish:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup aromatic basmati rice
• 1 ½ tablespoons neutral vegetable oil (like canola or sunflower)
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger root
• 3 tablespoons concentrated tomato paste
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomato sauce
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 ½ teaspoons garam masala spice blend
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground chili powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

How to Make Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

To make this delightful feast, follow these detailed steps. Trust me, the end result will have everyone asking for seconds!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the garam masala. Let it sit while you prepare the sauce. This short marination adds flavor to the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Develop the Sauce

Mix in the tomato paste, then stir in the crushed tomato sauce and chicken broth. Bring this to a simmer.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Add the remaining spices: garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, cumin, and smoked paprika. These spices transform the ordinary tomato mixture into an alluring sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the sauce. Ensure the chicken is well-coated. Cover and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 6: Stir in the Cream

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the heavy cream. This adds that lovely richness we love in Tikka Masala. Stir until combined and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. It adds a fresh touch. Serve alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.

Tips for Success

Here are some tips to help you create a mouthwatering Chicken Tikka Masala:

• Use quality spices: Fresh spices can make a significant difference. Store them properly to maintain flavors.
• Don’t rush the simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps meld the flavors. Patience is key.
• Adjust spice levels: If you like it spicier, increase the chili powder or a touch of cayenne.
• Make it creamy: For a richer taste, try adding a bit more cream or even coconut milk for an alternative twist.
• Don’t skip the marination: Even a short marination enhances flavor. A few extra minutes can elevate the dish immensely.

Nutrition Information

For those keeping an eye on nutrition, here’s a quick overview of what you’re getting per serving (estimated):

This makes for a satisfying and energizing meal that can fit into various dietary plans.

How to Store the Leftovers?

Leftovers? Lucky you! Chicken Tikka Masala keeps well in the fridge. Here’s how:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: If you’ve made a big batch, it freezes beautifully. Use freezer-safe containers to keep it fresh for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Recommended Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

Here are some pairs that make this dish even more delightful:

1. Cucumber Salad A simple cucumber salad with a sprinkle of salt and lemon juice offers a refreshing crunch. It balances the richness of the curry.

2. A Simple Lentil Dish Dal, or lentils, are common in Indian cuisine. A mild dal can serve as a hearty side and pairs excellently with Chicken Tikka Masala.

3. Baida Roti These Indian-style stuffed flatbreads are fantastic. Filled with vegetables or meat, they make the perfect vehicle for enjoying the masala.

4. Paneer Tikka If you want something cheesy, paneer tikka is ideal. Grilled pieces of paneer marinated in spices come together as a delightful contrast.

Ingredient Substitutes for Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

Sometimes life happens. If you find yourself missing an ingredient, no worries! Here are some substitutes:

1. Chicken Thighs If you don’t have chicken thighs, chicken breasts work well. They will be less tender but still deliver flavor.

2. Heavy Cream In place of heavy cream, opt for coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. It adds a subtle sweetness.

3. Basmati Rice If basmati rice is unavailable, jasmine rice or even long-grain rice can work just fine.

4. Tomato Paste In lieu of tomato paste, use equal parts canned crushed tomatoes. It offers a slightly different texture but maintains flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Nothing beats a warm bowl of Chicken Tikka Masala at the end of a long day. It’s a dish that invites you to gather around the table, share smiles, and enjoy the company of loved ones. With this easy recipe, you’re not just whipping up a meal; you’re creating lasting memories.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and be prepared to impress yourself and your guests. With just a few simple steps, you can serve a dish that speaks of comfort, delight, and a touch of culinary adventure. Enjoy your cooking journey!

You’ll Also Like These Latest Post

• Slow Cooker Asian Short Ribs
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
• Easy Steak Fajitas Recipe