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Chicken Tikka Masala

Ultimate Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe: Homemade Delight Awaits

This Chicken Tikka Masala is a comforting dish with vibrant spices, perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 cup Plain yogurt or Greek yogurt Helps tenderize the chicken while adding creaminess to the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice Adds a zesty brightness that balances the rich flavors.
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin An essential spice that imparts a warm, nutty flavor to the marinade.
  • 2 teaspoons Garam masala A blend of spices that delivers a fragrant kick to the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon Red chili powder Adjust this ingredient to your heat preference for the perfect spice level.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances all the flavors, ensuring that the chicken is well-seasoned.
  • 1 tablespoon Grated fresh ginger Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that's both soothing and inviting.
  • 4 cloves Finely minced garlic Brings a rich depth, elevating the entire dish's flavor profile.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil Provides a neutral base for sautéing, allowing the spices to shine.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness to the sauce, contributing to its creamy texture.
  • 1 large Sweet onion Balances flavors with its natural sweetness, enhancing the sauce’s depth.
  • 1 tablespoon Grated ginger Adds a warm, fragrant note to the sautéed mixture.
  • 4 cloves Finely minced garlic Enhances the sauce’s aroma and taste with its savory punch.
  • 1 teaspoon Brown sugar Balances out the spices and tomatoes, creating a harmonious flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground coriander Adds a fresh, citrusy touch that complements the other spices.
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin Reinforces the warm, earthy notes already in the marinade.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Introduces a subtle smokiness that elevates the overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garam masala Fortifies the seasoning, tying together the dish with aromatic warmth.
  • 1 cup Tomato sauce Forms the base of the sauce, creating a rich and tangy foundation.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Transforms the sauce into a luxurious, creamy mix that envelops the chicken.
  • to taste Water Adjust the sauce’s consistency to your preference for the perfect finish.

Equipment

  • large pan
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, red chili powder, salt, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl. Mix well until smooth and fragrant, creating a harmonious marinade for the chicken.
  2. Coat the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring each bite is fully covered. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes—this helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse robust flavors.
  3. Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. This combination creates a flavorful base to sauté the vegetables and spices, giving the dish its rich foundation.
  4. Sauté the diced onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the essential sweetness and depth of flavor in your sauce.
  5. Stir in the grated ginger, minced garlic, brown sugar, ground coriander, cumin, smoked paprika, and garam masala. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their incredible aromas.
  6. Add the tomato sauce to the pan and let it simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
  7. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream until mixed well, transforming the sauce into a luscious, creamy blend.
  8. Incorporate the marinated chicken into the sauce and cook until it is fully cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
  9. Adjust the consistency by adding water if the sauce is too thick, stirring to combine.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the chicken longer than 30 minutes. Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon before serving.

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