Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of an authentic Chicken Tikka Masala. This classic Indian dish is a tantalizing blend of tender chicken pieces marinated in a spicy yogurt mixture and simmered in a creamy tomato sauce. Here’s how to make it from scratch.

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the chicken marinade: yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for the best flavor.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Preheat your grill or broiler. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and grill or broil for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked and has a nice char.

Preparing the Sauce:

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and starts to brown.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate.
4. Add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce is creamy and the chicken is heated through.

Serving:

1. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over steamed rice or with warm naan bread.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness and color.

Enjoy your homemade authentic Chicken Tikka Masala, a dish that brings the taste of India right to your table!