Chicken Tikka Masala (Classic Indian Dinner)

⏳ Prep Time: 20 minutes | ⏳ Cook Time: 40 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 4

Description:

A beloved Indian restaurant favorite, Chicken Tikka Masala features tender, marinated chicken in a rich, creamy, and spiced tomato-based sauce. This dish is bold, aromatic, and full of comforting warmth, making it the perfect international dinner to serve with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan bread. Whether you love mild or spicy curries, this homemade version is easier than you think! 🍛🔥🍗

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter or oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Basmati rice
• Naan bread

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and all the marinade spices.
2. Add chicken pieces, coat well, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

3. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until browned (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet). Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Masala Sauce

4. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic, ginger, and spices, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes, stir, and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in cream (or coconut milk) and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked chicken back to the sauce and let simmer for 10 more minutes until fully cooked.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed basmati rice and naan bread.

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

• Swap chicken for paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Add peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Adjust spice levels by adding more or less cayenne pepper.