Description
Chicken Tikka Masala is a creamy, spiced, and flavorful Indian-inspired dish featuring marinated grilled chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based curry sauce. This homemade version delivers restaurant-quality taste with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs, cut into cubes
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder (optional)
For the Masala Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1.5 cups tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken – Mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices in a bowl. Coat the chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
- Cook the Chicken – Grill, broil, or pan-fry the marinated chicken until charred and cooked through. Set aside.
- Prepare the Masala Sauce – In a pan, heat butter or oil, then sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until soft.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes – Stir in cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, and turmeric. Add tomato puree and simmer until thickened.
- Finish with Cream – Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture.
- Combine and Simmer – Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy – Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Notes
- Healthier Version – Use Greek yogurt instead of cream.
- Spicier – Increase red chili powder or add chopped green chilies.
- Dairy-Free – Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream.
- Grill Alternative – Bake the chicken in the oven instead of grilling.
- Vegetarian Option – Replace chicken with paneer, tofu, or chickpeas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinate Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Grilling
- Cuisine: Indian, Indian-Inspired
Keywords: Chicken Tikka Masala, Indian Curry, Creamy Tomato Chicken, Spiced Chicken, Easy Tikka Masala Recipe