Embark on a flavor-filled journey to India with our Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala! Succulent chicken, marinated in a symphony of spices, is lovingly simmered in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, creating a dish that’s both vibrant and comforting. With the perfect balance of heat and warmth, this recipe invites you to savor the essence of Indian cuisine right in your own kitchen. Get ready to delight your taste buds with every aromatic, saucy bite!
In our kitchen, Chicken Tikka Masala is more than just a recipe; it’s a story of culinary exploration and family gatherings. The marinating chicken, infused with yogurt and a myriad of spices, sets the stage for an aromatic journey. As the sizzle of spices fills the air, memories of Indian kitchens and the warmth of family meals come alive. The rich tomato sauce, with its blend of garam masala and cream, transforms the dish into a velvety indulgence. This recipe has become a symbol of shared moments, where the enticing aroma draws everyone to the table, creating lasting memories with each savory spoonful.
Why This Chicken Tikka Masala:
“Why This Chicken Tikka Masala Deserves a Place on Your Dining Table”
- Spice-Infused Marination: The chicken is marinated in a blend of yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, red chili powder, fresh ginger, and garlic, ensuring a flavor-packed foundation.
- Perfectly Seared Chicken: Searing the marinated chicken creates a tantalizing crust, locking in juices and enhancing the overall texture.
- Aromatic Spice Blend: The sauce, enriched with a medley of coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, and garam masala, creates a fragrant symphony that lingers in every bite.
- Creamy Tomato Embrace: The tomato sauce, combined with heavy cream, results in a lusciously rich and velvety texture that blankets the chicken in indulgence.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over basmati rice, accompanied by naan bread, and garnished with fresh cilantro for a complete culinary experience.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 cup plain yogurt or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (not cayenne pepper)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons finely minced garlic
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small bite-sized pieces
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large sweet onion, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 8-ounce can tomato sauce (unseasoned)
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup water (only if needed)
For Serving:
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Naan bread
- Cooked basmati rice
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the marinade.
- Add the chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for 15 minutes to 1 hour (ideally overnight in the fridge, if time permits).
- Sear the Chicken:
- Warm oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken pieces in batches, if necessary, until browned (about 5 minutes per side). Set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Melt butter in the same pan. Sauté onions until soft (about 3 minutes).
- Add ginger and garlic; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add brown sugar, coriander, cumin, paprika, garam masala, and salt. Stir occasionally for about 15 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in tomato sauce; let simmer for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Create Creamy Tomato Embrace:
- Stir in the cream until incorporated.
- Add partially cooked chicken back to the pan; cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thick.
- Adjust Consistency (If Needed):
- Pour in water to thin out the sauce, only if necessary.
- Serve with Elegance:
- Serve over cooked basmati rice, with naan bread, and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Notes: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. This Chicken Tikka Masala reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers. Experiment with different side dishes or add veggies to customize the recipe to your liking. Enjoy the aromatic journey of flavors with this homemade classic!
