Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of India? Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala is not just a dish; it's a celebration of rich flavors and aromatic spices that promise to tantalize your palate. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of love, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Imagine succulent chicken pieces bathed in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that’s perfect for scooping up with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp tikka masala spice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breast with 1 cup of plain yogurt and 2 tablespoons of tikka masala spice. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the other ingredients. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Set these aside for later use.
- After the chicken has marinated, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Next, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink on the outside.
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the can of crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- After simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Mix well to create a creamy sauce. Season with salt to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Let the chicken tikka masala simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the chicken tikka masala hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you have the time, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight will deepen the flavors and tenderize the meat even more.
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best taste, use fresh tikka masala spice or make your own blend using spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and garam masala. Freshly ground spices can elevate the dish significantly.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of tikka masala spice you use. If you prefer a milder dish, start with less and gradually add more to suit your taste.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Take your time sautéing the onions until they are golden and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your sauce.
- Creamy Consistency: For an extra creamy sauce, you can add a bit more heavy cream or even a splash of coconut milk for a unique twist.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the cilantro garnish! It adds a fresh, vibrant finish to your dish that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your Chicken Tikka Masala with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up all that delicious sauce, making every bite a delight!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 120mg
