Chicken Tikka Masala

This Chicken Tikka Masala is creamy, spiced, and full of rich flavors that make it a comforting meal any night of the week. I love how the marinated chicken stays juicy and tender while soaking in the bold and velvety sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the smokiness of marinated chicken with a luscious sauce that feels like a restaurant-quality dish at home. I can adjust the spice level easily, and I like how versatile it is whether I serve it with rice, naan, or even over roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade:
1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cubed
1 cup yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce:
2 tbsp butter or oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup tomato purée
1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp garam masala
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, I mix the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. I add the cubed chicken, coat well, and let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. I heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through. I set it aside.
3. In a large pan, I heat butter or oil over medium heat. I sauté the onion until soft and golden, then add garlic and ginger-garlic paste, cooking for another minute.
4. I stir in the tomato paste, then pour in the tomato purée. I let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. I add turmeric, coriander, and garam masala, stirring to blend.
6. I pour in the cream, stirring until the sauce becomes rich and smooth.
7. I add the cooked chicken into the sauce and simmer for another 5–10 minutes so the flavors meld together.
8. I garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 20 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to cook, so I can usually have it ready in about 1 hour.

Variations

I sometimes use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. If I want more heat, I add chili powder or fresh chopped chilies to the sauce. I also like making this with paneer or tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months, and I thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, I often use thighs because they stay juicier and more flavorful.

Do I have to marinate the chicken overnight?

No, but I prefer at least 1 hour of marinating to let the flavors soak in.

Can I make this dish without cream?

Yes, I like substituting coconut cream or even cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?

It can be mild or spicy depending on how much chili I add.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes prepare the sauce a day before and add the chicken when ready to serve.

What should I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

I usually serve it with basmati rice, naan bread, or even cauliflower rice.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, I like grilling the chicken for a smoky flavor.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

I let it simmer longer, or I stir in a spoonful of tomato paste.

Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Masala?

Yes, it freezes very well for up to 2 months.

How do I make it lower in fat?

I use light cream or yogurt instead of heavy cream, and I cook with less oil.

Conclusion

I love making Chicken Tikka Masala at home because it’s creamy, flavorful, and so comforting. With tender marinated chicken and a rich sauce, it always feels like a special meal that’s surprisingly easy to put together. Whether I serve it for a family dinner or meal prep, it never disappoints.

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