Name: Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee; 2 tablespoons butter or ghee; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 1/2 cups tomato purée; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional); 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Imagine tender chunks of marinated chicken, grilled to smoky perfection, then bathed in a rich, spiced tomato cream sauce—yes, this is the legendary Chicken Tikka Masala! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or you’re trying to impress friends, this dish never fails to steal the spotlight. There’s something magical in how the warm spices and creamy sauce wrap every bite in pure comfort, making it impossible to have just one helping. If you’ve ever craved restaurant-style Indian food at home, this recipe will bring that delicious, aromatic experience right to your own table.

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken Tikka Masala lies in its careful blend of flavorful, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a unique role, from creating that irresistible marinade to producing the velvety sauce that clings so well to each bite of chicken.

Chicken thighs or breasts: Tender, juicy, and perfect for soaking up bold flavors; thighs add extra richness, while breasts work well too.
Plain yogurt: Key to a tangy, tenderizing marinade—don’t skip this for juicy chicken.
Lemon juice: Brightens up the marinade and balances all those earthy spices.
Ground cumin: Adds warmth and depth to both marinade and sauce.
Paprika: Brings mild heat and a signature reddish hue, making the dish extra appetizing.
Ground turmeric: Provides golden color and subtle earthiness—essential for the iconic look and taste.
Garam masala: The soul of Indian curries, this spice blend delivers complexity and fragrance.
Ground coriander: Lends a citrusy, herbaceous note that lifts the other spices.
Salt and pepper: Absolutely vital for balancing flavors at every step.
Vegetable oil or ghee: For grilling the chicken—ghee brings a richer, traditional touch.
Butter or ghee (for sauce): Starts the sauce base with classic silkiness.
Onion: Forms the aromatic base that makes the sauce so savory.
Garlic: Packs a punch and infuses the dish with robust flavor.
Fresh ginger: Adds a sweet, peppery zing that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Tomato purée: Essential for the sauce’s bold, tangy backbone.
Chili powder (optional): Lets you customize the dish’s heat to your liking.
Heavy cream or coconut cream: Delivers that luscious, creamy texture—use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Fresh cilantro: A burst of color and freshness for finishing each serving on a high note.

How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Let’s start by making your chicken as flavorful as possible! In a big bowl, combine your yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, coriander, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, giving them a good mix so every piece is coated. Let them marinate for at least an hour (overnight is even better). This step gives the chicken incredible tenderness and allows the spices to deeply infuse every bite.

Step 2: Grill or Sear the Chicken

Heat your oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Gently add the marinated chicken pieces, giving them space to brown rather than steam. Grill or sear them in batches if needed, turning occasionally until beautifully golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken out of the pan—it’ll finish its journey in the sauce soon!

Step 3: Create the Aromatic Base

In the same skillet, melt your butter or ghee over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Next, add the garlic and fresh ginger. Let these sizzle until fragrant—another minute or two. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells absolutely spectacular.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in your tomato purée and add the cumin, paprika, chili powder (if you’re using it), and another sprinkle of garam masala. Let the mixture bubble gently, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and darkens—about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to concentrate and mellow.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream

With the sauce rich and aromatic, it’s time for the magic touch. Lower the heat and stir in your heavy cream or coconut cream, slowly, until the sauce turns silky smooth and perfectly creamy. Taste and adjust with a bit more salt if needed.

Step 6: Simmer Everything Together

Finally, return your cooked chicken (plus any juices!) back into the sauce. Let the whole thing simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing those incredible flavors to meld and the chicken to soak up every last bit of the sauce. When it’s bubbling lazily and thickened just enough, your Chicken Tikka Masala is ready to serve!

How to Serve Chicken Tikka Masala

Garnishes

A handful of chopped fresh cilantro sprinkled on top introduces both color and a hit of zippy freshness. For a restaurant-style finish, swirl in a little extra cream just before serving or top with paper-thin slices of green chili for a gentle, fragrant bite.

Side Dishes

Classic Chicken Tikka Masala almost demands fluffy basmati rice or soft, buttery naan bread as the perfect partner. If you want to get fancy, try serving it with cumin rice, garlic naan, or even a cooling cucumber raita to temper the warm spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Think small bowls for tapas-style appetizers, or spoon it onto crispy toasted naan triangles for party platters. You can even toss leftovers with pasta or use as a stuffing for baked potatoes—a playful, delicious twist on tradition that shows Chicken Tikka Masala knows no bounds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so your next-day lunch might taste even better than the night before!

Freezing

This dish is a freezer superstar! Cool your Chicken Tikka Masala completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. When a craving strikes, you’ll have comfort food already waiting.

Reheating

Gently warm your leftovers in a covered saucepan over low heat, adding a tablespoon or two of water or cream if the sauce is too thick. Stir occasionally until it’s steaming hot and the chicken is heated through. The microwave works as well, but the stovetop tends to keep the chicken more juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts cook a little faster and are leaner, but with a good marinade, they’ll stay tender and flavorful in your Chicken Tikka Masala.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Swap out the yogurt in the marinade for coconut yogurt, and use coconut cream in the sauce. The result will be every bit as creamy, with a subtle coconut aroma that’s just as delightful.

What if I don’t have garam masala?

Garam masala gives Chicken Tikka Masala its classic depth, but you can substitute with a mix of extra cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon or cloves if you need to improvise.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mildly spiced with just a gentle warmth, especially if you leave out the optional chili powder. Add extra chili powder or a sliced green chili for those who prefer a bigger kick!

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-cooking?

Yes! If you want that signature smoky flavor, thread your marinated chicken onto skewers and grill until charred and cooked through. Then finish in the sauce for a true restaurant-style Chicken Tikka Masala experience.

Final Thoughts

Every home cook deserves to master a dish as soul-satisfying as Chicken Tikka Masala. The balance of spice, creaminess, and tang will keep you coming back for more—so roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let this recipe transport you to pure comfort. Your kitchen is about to smell incredible!