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–+ servings
Mary Kelly

Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 543
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup aromatic basmati rice
  • 1 ½ tablespoons neutral vegetable oil
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • ½ medium yellow onion
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 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

Equipment

  • Large saucepan, dutch oven

Method
 

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. Before serving, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. It adds a fresh touch. Serve alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.

Nutrition

Calories: 543kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 23gFat: 27.6gSaturated Fat: 11.8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 648mgFiber: 13gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 35IUVitamin C: 82mgCalcium: 13mgIron: 58mg

Notes

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.

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