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A vibrant bowl of chicken tikka masala, garnished with fresh cilantro

Proven way to grow Chicken Tikka Masala

This recipe provides a proven method to prepare delicious Chicken Tikka Masala, featuring tender chicken in a creamy, flavorful tomato-based sauce. It's perfect for a satisfying dinner.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 0.5 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon ginger paste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic paste
  • 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon garam masala
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger paste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic paste
  • 15 oz canned crushed tomatoes
  • 0.5 cup water
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon garam masala
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • large skillet
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

Marinate the Chicken
  1. Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and combine with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and salt.
  2. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for several hours in the refrigerator.
Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil.
  2. Cook the chicken in batches until browned and cooked through, then set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
  1. Melt butter in the same skillet, then sauté chopped onion until softened.
  2. Add ginger paste and garlic paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, water, sugar, salt, and garam masala, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
Combine and Serve
  1. Stir in the heavy cream and the cooked chicken, heating through gently.
  2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Notes

For extra depth of flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Adjust spice levels to your preference by adding more or less chili powder if desired.