Name: Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 600 g chicken thigh (boneless, skinless), cut into cubes ((Note 1)); 1/2 cup plain yoghurt (full fat best (Greek is fine)); 6 cloves garlic, minced ((~1.5 tbsp)); 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tsp garam masala ((Note 2)); 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika (sweet, normal or smokey); 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper ((optional)); Pinch black pepper; 2 tsp lemon juice; 1 - 2 tbsp oil ((Note 3)); 2 tsp turmeric; 1 tbsp garam masala ((Note 2)); 2 tsp coriander; 1 tsp cumin; 1/8 tsp cardamom powder; 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper; 3 tbsp vegetable oil ((Note 3)); 30 g unsalted butter OR ghee; 1 onion finely chopped (brown, white or yellow); 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 6 cloves garlic, crushed or grated; 1 tbsp paprika ((not smoked)); 1 2/3 cups tomato passata ((tomato puree)); 1 2/3 cups water; 100 ml cream ((thickened or pure is fine))

Introduction to Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala

Why Chicken Tikka Masala is the Perfect Homemade Dish for Young Professionals

If you're a young professional juggling a busy schedule but still eager to whip up a delicious meal, homemade chicken tikka masala is your answer! This iconic Indian dish combines tender chicken marinated in fragrant spices with a creamy tomato sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Why choose chicken tikka masala? For starters, it allows you to impress friends or family without spending all day in the kitchen. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a manageable cooking process, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. Plus, most of the ingredients can be found at your local supermarket, which means no frantic shopping trips!

Another major perk? You have full control over the spice level, allowing you to tailor the flavors to your taste. Whether you prefer a milder version or a fiery kick, making it yourself means you can satisfy any craving. And best of all, it's a fantastic option for meal prep; marinate the chicken overnight and savor the authentic tastes of India right at home.

Interested in cooking this? Check out the full recipe above and get ready to dive into a culinary adventure!

Ingredients for Chicken Tikka Masala

Essential Ingredients for the Marinade

To achieve that mouthwatering chicken tikka masala flavor, let’s start with the marinade. You’ll need:

600g chicken thighs (boneless and skinless, cut into cubes)
½ cup plain yogurt (full-fat is best for creaminess)
6 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
Spices: 1 teaspoon garam masala, salt, cumin, ground coriander, and paprika.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil and a splash of lemon juice completes this flavorful mix.

Let your chicken marinate for at least 3 hours—overnight is even better for maximum tenderness!

Key Spices for the Curry Sauce

The magic truly happens with the spices for the curry sauce. Gather:

2 teaspoon turmeric
1 tablespoon garam masala
2 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon cumin
A pinch of cardamom and cayenne pepper

These spices create a rich, aromatic base that will elevate your dish.

Optional Accompaniments

Don't forget the sides! Serve your chicken tikka masala with tender basmati rice or warm, fluffy naan for a complete meal. You might also consider a refreshing cucumber raita for a cooling contrast. For an easy naan recipe, check out this no yeast flatbread.

The beauty of this dish is how it all comes together; once you have your ingredients prepped, you'll see how straightforward and satisfying homemade chicken tikka masala can be!

Preparing Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken marinated in spices with a luscious sauce that’s bursting with flavor. If you're ready to bring the warmth of Indian cuisine into your kitchen, follow these simple steps!

Marinate the Chicken

Start your journey by preparing the chicken tikka marinade. In a large bowl, combine the following:

½ cup plain yoghurt (full-fat for the best results)
6 cloves minced garlic
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon each of salt, cumin, ground coriander, and paprika
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 teaspoons lemon juice
Optional: ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a little heat

Mix these ingredients well before adding 600g of cubed boneless, skinless chicken thigh. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least three hours, or ideally overnight. The longer the marination, the more flavorful your chicken will be!

Cook the Chicken for That Charred Flavor

A good char is what elevates your chicken tikka! Heat a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over high heat until it’s smoking. Add half of your marinated chicken and spread it out; resist the urge to move it around for about two minutes to let it sear. Flip the chicken pieces and allow them to char on the other side – they don’t need to be fully cooked, just beautifully charred. Remove them and repeat with the remaining chicken.

Prepare the Sauce with Aromatic Spices

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium-high. Use a paper towel to wipe out excess residue, which can burn. Add 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Once melted, toss in a finely chopped onion and stir in 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook for about 7 minutes until the onion is soft and golden.

Next, mix in 2 tablespoons of grated ginger and 6 cloves of garlic. Sauté for another two minutes before introducing 2 teaspoons of turmeric, 1 tablespoon of garam masala, and 2 teaspoons of coriander. This blend creates a fragrant base for your sauce – a critical step in achieving authentic chicken tikka masala flavor!

Combine Chicken and Sauce for the Final Cook

Now, add in 400ml of tomato passata and 400ml of water, stirring well. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. After simmering, it’s time to mix in your charred chicken, allowing everything to meld together beautifully for a few more minutes.

Blend for a Silky Smooth Finish

For that signature touch, pour the sauce into a bowl and use a stick blender to purée until smooth. This step is crucial for the velvety texture that makes chicken tikka masala so irresistible. Return the sauce to the skillet, add 100ml of cream, a teaspoon of sugar, and a tablespoon of butter, stirring until smooth and melted.

Serve your chicken tikka masala over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, and consider garnishing with fresh coriander. The richness of this dish is sure to impress everyone at your dinner table!

For more tips and delicious Indian recipes, feel free to check out BBC Good Food or Serious Eats!

Variations on Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala with Vegetables

Looking to amp up your chicken tikka masala? Toss in your favorite veggies! Bell peppers, peas, and spinach not only add color but also elevate the nutritional value. Simply sauté your selected vegetables after the onion step in the sauce and let them mingle with the aromatic spices. This delightful twist makes your dish heartier and more satisfying, creating an immersive experience without sacrificing the classic flavor.

Vegan Version of Chicken Tikka Masala

Craving a plant-based option? You can easily switch from chicken to tofu or chickpeas for a vegan chicken tikka masala. Use the same marinade—just replace the chicken with cubed tofu, marinating it well to soak up all those robust flavors. Follow the same cooking steps, and you’ll be amazed at how delicious and aromatic your vegan dish becomes. For a creaminess boost, swap regular cream for coconut cream. Embrace the versatility!

Feel free to experiment and find your favorite variation! For tips on customizing this dish further, check out Food Network’s guide on Indian cuisine for inspiration!

Cooking tips and notes for Chicken Tikka Masala

Importance of marination time

Marinating your chicken for Chicken Tikka Masala is crucial for flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least 3 hours, but if you can, let it sit in the fridge for 24 hours. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in succulent chicken that packs a flavor punch.

Tips for achieving the right texture in the sauce

To create a Chicken Tikka Masala sauce that’s rich and creamy, don’t skip the blending step! This is essential for achieving a silky texture. When sautéing your onions and other ingredients, be patient—cook them until they are golden for that deep, caramelized flavor. Finally, use heavy cream or full-fat yogurt; this will elevate your sauce and make it irresistibly smooth.

For more tips on marination and cooking techniques, check out BBC Good Food and Serious Eats.

Serving suggestions for Chicken Tikka Masala

Pairing chicken tikka masala with basmati rice

One of the best ways to enjoy your chicken tikka masala is by serving it over fluffy basmati rice. The rice helps to absorb the rich, aromatic sauce, making every bite a delight. To enhance the experience, consider seasoning the rice with a bit of turmeric for color and flavor or serve it with a sprinkling of fresh cilantro for that extra punch.

Adding a side of homemade naan or flatbread

Don’t forget to include some warm homemade naan or flatbread alongside your curry! These soft, pillowy breads are perfect for scooping up the delicious sauce. Making naan at home is easier than you might think and adds a personal touch to your meal. If you're short on time, store-bought flatbread can also do the trick—just warm it up before serving to bring out its best flavors!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Tikka Masala

Preparation Time

To get started on your chicken tikka masala, set aside roughly 15 minutes for the preparation. This includes marinating the chicken—don’t rush this step, as it infuses the meat with rich flavors!

Cooking Time

Once your ingredients are prepped, the cooking will take about 45 minutes. This time includes everything from browning the chicken to simmering that luscious sauce until it’s perfectly creamy.

Total Time

All in all, the total time spent making your chicken tikka masala is approximately 1 hour. With a little planning, you can easily whip up this authentic dish, which is sure to impress family and friends alike. For more details on the magic of Indian cooking, check out BBC Good Food.

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Tikka Masala

Calories Per Serving

Indulging in this Chicken Tikka Masala will cost you about 582 calories per serving. It's a hearty dish that promises both comfort and satisfaction without tipping the scales too drastically!

Protein Content

You're in for a protein treat! Each serving packs around 39 grams of protein. Perfect for those fueling their active lifestyles or simply aiming to have a satisfying meal.

Sodium Levels

When it comes to sodium, this dish contains approximately 930 milligrams per serving. While that’s a bit on the higher side, keep in mind that curries often rely on salt for robust flavor. Consider pairing it with low-sodium rice or naan to balance your plate.

For more insights on healthy eating, check out resources like the USDA's Dietary Guidelines.

FAQs about Chicken Tikka Masala

What's the best type of chicken for this recipe?

For the best flavor and texture, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are your go-to. Thighs stay juicy even after marinating and cooking, making them ideal for chicken tikka masala. Unlike chicken breasts, they won’t dry out, especially when subjected to high heat for that perfect charred finish.

How do I adjust the spice level in chicken tikka masala?

If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or eliminate it altogether. Conversely, for more heat, you can increase the cayenne or add a pinch of red chili powder. Remember, you can always serve extra chili on the side for those who like it spicy!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken for up to 48 hours and store the cooked curry in the fridge for three days. If saving, consider freezing it for up to three months—just reheat with a splash of water, and you're good to go! For more tips on preparation, check out this guide on prepping Indian meals.

Conclusion on Chicken Tikka Masala

In summary, Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful dish that effortlessly brings Indian cuisine into your home. With its rich, creamy sauce and flavorful marinated chicken, it’s both comforting and indulgent. Beyond being a crowd-pleaser, making it from scratch elevates your cooking skills. Enjoy it with basmati rice or homemade naan for a fulfilling meal!