Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Introduction
Chicken Tikka Masala is a delicious and flavorful dish loved by many. It features tender chicken pieces marinated in spices and yogurt, cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings and will surely impress your guests with its vibrant colors and wonderful taste.
Why Make This Recipe
This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is not just about taste; it’s about creating a heartwarming meal that everyone can enjoy. It combines the warmth of spices with creamy goodness, making it comfort food at its best. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste. Whether you’re a newbie in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you will love how straightforward and rewarding this recipe is.
How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with a 14-ounce can of regular coconut milk)
- 1/4 cup masala paste (recipe follows)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 – 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 – 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 cups rice
- 1/4 cup cilantro
- 2 onions (about 3 cups when chopped)
- 5 cloves garlic
- A 2-inch piece of fresh ginger
- 3 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon each chili powder, turmeric, and cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- A small bunch of cilantro stems
- Juice of one lemon
Directions
- Masala Paste: Blend all the masala paste ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Reserve about 1/4 cup of this paste for immediate use; the rest can be frozen for future recipes.
- Marinate Chicken: Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix it with 1-2 tablespoons of the masala paste and the yogurt. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Cook Rice and Chicken: Start cooking the rice as per the package instructions. Meanwhile, heat a large, deep nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of oil. Cook the chicken in batches without stirring until the pieces are well-browned on the outside. Remove from the pan and set aside; the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
- Sauce: In the same skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of the masala paste. Stir-fry for a few minutes, then add the tomato puree and the browned chicken. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Finish: Stir in the cream or coconut milk and season with salt. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly by letting it stand. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over rice, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy the heavenly flavors!
How to Serve Chicken Tikka Masala
Serve your Chicken Tikka Masala hot over a bed of fluffy rice. You can also offer naan bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Store Chicken Tikka Masala
Let the Chicken Tikka Masala cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to two months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Chicken Tikka Masala
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
- Pair it with basmati rice or your favorite type of rice for the best experience.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. They tend to stay moist during cooking.
2. Is Chicken Tikka Masala very spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. You can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or add more cream to tone it down.
3. Can I make the masala paste ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the masala paste ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a week or freeze it for later use.
Enjoy making your Chicken Tikka Masala, and relish the warm, comforting flavors that this dish brings!
