We will make you crave for this: juicy chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, grilled up and then simmered in a creamy, rich tomato sauce with bold flavors like garlic, ginger, garam masala, and a smoky kick from paprika. Once you’ve created our Chicken Tikka Masala recipe, the aroma itself is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen, and the first bite is a symphony of flavors, rich, spicy, and comforting all at once.
Chicken Tikka Masala isn’t just another curry; it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition. Its roots in Indian cuisine, combined with Western adaptations, make it universally loved. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it brings warmth and joy to every meal.
Why Chicken Tikka Masala recipe Is a Family Favorite
The secret lies in the marination and the sauce. Marinating the chicken allows it to absorb flavors deeply, making every bite juicy and tender. The sauce balances heat, creaminess, and tang, ensuring it’s neither too spicy nor too mild. Served with basmati rice or warm naan, it becomes a complete, satisfying meal.
My mum has always said that this Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is seriously one of the best go-to dishes. It works just as well for a quick weeknight meal as it does for a big party, and it’s always so comforting.
Our Secret to Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala: Layering Flavors
You’ll want to begin by getting the chicken coated in a marinade of yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices. Grill or pan-sear the pieces to lock in the juices. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce with sautéed onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices, then add tomato puree and cream for a luscious finish. Simmering the chicken in this sauce allows it to soak up all the flavors.
✨ With this recipe, you don’t just make curry; you create a dish that embodies comfort, aroma, and satisfaction. If you love the spice then why not try our family favorite, Jerk Chicken for the family, here.
Chicken Tikka Masala recipe – The Curry That Warms the Soul
Description
A rich and flavorful curry made with marinated chicken pieces cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce, infused with traditional Indian spices. Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners, special occasions, or any time you crave a taste of India.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
For the Sauce:
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, spices, and salt. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
- Cook Chicken: Grill, broil, or pan-sear the chicken until lightly charred and mostly cooked through. Set aside.
Prepare Sauce:
Sautéing onions: Add the onions to the pan with the hot oil and cook until they turn golden. Then, toss in the garlic and ginger and cook for a minute or two.
- Add cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder; toast for 30 seconds.
Simmering the sauce: Stir in the tomato purée and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring every so often.
- Reduce heat, stir in cream, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Finishing the dish: Drop the grilled chicken into the sauce and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. The dish is ready when the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Sprinkle with garam masala and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.
Fresh cilantro a.k.a Fresh coriander
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1 plate (~1 cup chicken + sauce)
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 400kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 26g40%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Sodium 450mg19%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 32g64%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Serve Chicken Tikka Masala with steamed basmati rice, warm naan, or garlic roti. To really make the flavors pop, finish it off with a little yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Leftovers taste even better the next day as the spices meld further.
