Chicken tikka masala is a beloved dish with a complex and rich history. It’s a popular Indian-British curry known for its creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken pieces. The dish is said to have originated in the UK rather than India, stemming from Indian cuisine but adapted to British tastes.
Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, and salt. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they’re coated well with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally longer.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a pan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until golden brown. Add tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce, simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
- Add Cream and Serve: Pour in the heavy cream, stir gently, and simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
This recipe combines the tanginess of yogurt, the warmth of spices, and the richness of cream to create the classic flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala. Adjust spice levels according to your preference for a milder or spicier dish. Serve it with rice, naan bread, or your choice of sides for a delicious meal!
Enjoy your Chicken Tikka Masala !!!
