Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

Easy Chicken Tikka Masala, a beloved dish known for its rich, creamy and aromatic sauce. It has become a favourite not only in Indian cuisine but also across the globe. Its debated origins, are often attributed to the Indian subcontinent, though some claim it was conceived in British Indian restaurants. Regardless of its roots, Chicken Tikka Masala epitomises a harmonious blend of spices and textures. It has become a go-to dish for both novice and experienced cooks.

The Essence of Chicken Tikka Masala

The allure of Chicken Tikka Masala lies in its complex yet balanced flavour profile. It begins with marinated chicken pieces, which are traditionally cooked in a tandoor (clay oven) but can be grilled or baked at home for ease. The marinade, often comprising yogurt, lemon juice, and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, infuses the chicken with depth and tenderness.

The sauce, or “masala,” is the star of the dish. Typically made with tomatoes, cream, and a variety of spices such as turmeric, paprika, and ground coriander, the sauce is simmered to perfection, achieving a creamy and rich consistency that coats the chicken pieces beautifully. The combination of tangy tomatoes and creamy yogurt or cream creates a comforting and indulgent dish that is both satisfying and vibrant.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Tikka Masala is traditionally enjoyed with several accompaniments that complement its rich flavours and enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some suggestions:

1. Basmati Rice

The fluffy and fragrant basmati rice is the perfect canvas to soak up the luscious tikka masala sauce. Its long grains and light texture balance the richness of the dish, making each bite harmonious.

2. Naan Bread

Warm, buttery naan bread is an excellent choice for scooping up the sauce and chicken. The slight chewiness of the naan contrasts beautifully with the creamy masala, creating a delightful texture combination.

3. Raita

Raita is a cooling yogurt-based side dish mixed with cucumber, mint and a hint of cumin. It provides a refreshing counterpoint to the spicy and rich chicken tikka masala. Also, it helps to cleanse the palate and adds a creamy, cool element to the meal.

4. Papadum

Crispy and crunchy, papadum is a lentil-based cracker that adds a textural contrast to the dish. It can be enjoyed as a starter or alongside the main course, providing a satisfying crunch.

5. Chutneys

Various chutneys, such as mango or mint chutney, add an extra layer of flavour. The sweetness of mango chutney or the fresh zing of mint chutney can complement the spice and richness of the chicken tikka masala.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Easy Chicken Tikka Masala is not only a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner but also a crowd-pleaser for entertaining guests. Its preparation can be simplified for quick meals or elaborated upon for a more authentic culinary experience. The adaptability of the recipe allows for personal touches and modifications, ensuring it can cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.

Certainly, Chicken Tikka Masala brings together the warmth of Indian spices, the comfort of a rich sauce and the joy of sharing food with family and friends. Whether served with basmati rice, naan bread, or a selection of sides, this dish promises to be a memorable meal.

Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich, creamy, and aromatic Indian dish featuring marinated chicken pieces cooked in a spiced tomato and cream sauce. This easy recipe brings the vibrant flavours of Indian cuisine to your table, perfect for a satisfying meal.

4.84 from 67 votes

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Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: British, Indian

Keyword: Chicken Tikka Masala, Curry, Dairy, Spice, Vegetables

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Marinade: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 People

Calories: 397kcal

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Ingredients

 

MetricImperial

Chicken Marinade Ingredients:

• 500 g chicken breast or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
• 150 g plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt

Masala Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 400 g chopped tomatoes
• 200 ml double cream or heavy cream
• salt to taste
• 1/2 bunch coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika and salt.
  150 g plain yogurt, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tsp ground cumin, 2 tsp ground coriander, 2 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp salt
• Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
  500 g chicken breast
• Preheat the grill or oven to high. Place the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet and cook until they are slightly charred and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can cook them in a frying pan over medium-high heat until browned. Set aside.
• In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes.
  2 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 large onion, 3 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp fresh ginger
• Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika and garam masala. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
  1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garam masala
• Pour in the chopped tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavours to meld.
  400 g chopped tomatoes
• Stir in the double cream, mixing well. Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce and simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt to taste.
  200 ml double cream, salt
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
  1/2 bunch coriander
• Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or your choice of sides.

Notes

Hints and Tips
– Marinating Time: For a more intense flavour, marinate the chicken overnight.
– Grill Marks: For authentic grill marks, use a grill or grill pan.
– Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute double cream with coconut milk.

Nutrition

Calories: 397kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 142mg | Sodium: 908mg | Potassium: 931mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1451IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 160mg | Iron: 4mg