There’s something magical about gathering around the table with family for a meal that warms the soul and excites the taste buds. Chicken Tikka Masala is one of those dishes that brings everyone together with its rich flavors and comforting aroma. This popular Indian dish is perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a cozy night in. Its creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce, paired with tender pieces of chicken, is sure to become a beloved family favorite. Let’s dive into this delightful culinary experience and make some unforgettable memories in the kitchen!
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Moderate
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Steamed basmati rice, for serving
- Warm naan bread, for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, discarding any excess marinade. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed basmati rice and warm naan bread.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate Ahead: For deeper flavors, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Mild It Down: For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Pairings
Chicken Tikka Masala pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice and freshly baked naan bread. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of cucumber raita and a glass of chilled mango lassi.
Zynahz’s Signature Sendoff
We hope you love making and devouring this Chicken Tikka Masala as much as we do! Share your creations with us on Instagram by using #ZynahzRecipes or tagging @Zynahz. We can’t wait to see your delicious results. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website, Zynahz, and subscribe to our newsletter for more mouth-watering recipes. Follow us on social media for your daily dose of culinary inspiration. Happy cooking, and let’s make every meal a celebration of family, creativity, and flavor!
