Irresistible Chicken Tikka Masala: A Comfort Food Delight

When the aroma of chicken tikka masala wafts through your kitchen, it’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. This dish is a whirlwind of flavors—tender chicken bathed in creamy tomato sauce with spices that dance on your palate. Each bite promises a burst of warmth, making it the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.

I remember my first attempt at making chicken tikka masala; I ended up with more splatters on my shirt than in the pot. But oh, the moment I tasted that velvety sauce! It was an explosion of flavor that transported me straight to an Indian restaurant. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish always brings smiles and second helpings.

The first time I served chicken tikka masala, my friends declared me a culinary wizard, despite my kitchen looking like a tornado hit it.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best, but feel free to adjust based on your dinner party size.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; garlic should always be fresh and zesty.

• Greek Yogurt: Use plain yogurt to marinate the chicken; it tenderizes and infuses delicious flavor.

• Tomato Sauce: Look for thick tomato sauce; it gives body to the curry without being watery.

• Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess; don’t skimp here if you want luxe texture and richness.

• Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): Fresh spices are essential! They elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness as a garnish; don’t skip this final touch!

For the Sauce:

• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth when sautéed until golden brown.

• Ginger Paste: Fresh ginger paste brings an aromatic kick; grate fresh ginger for best results.

• Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens up all those rich flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

The Marinade Magic: In a bowl, combine yogurt, garlic, ginger paste, cumin, coriander, and lemon juice. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Let them soak in those flavors for at least 30 minutes—trust me, it’s worth it!

Sautéing Sensation: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown and fragrant—this will make your kitchen smell amazing!

The Saucy Affair: Stir in tomato sauce and coconut milk once your onions are golden. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; let those flavors mingle like old friends catching up after years apart.

Cooking the Chicken: Add marinated chicken to the sauce and simmer until cooked through—about 15-20 minutes should do the trick! Your kitchen will transform into an aromatic haven during this step.

The Finishing Touches: Stir in garam masala and fresh cilantro just before serving. Taste for seasoning adjustments—maybe another pinch of salt or spice? You’re the chef here!

Enjoy your homemade chicken tikka masala over fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread while basking in compliments from family and friends!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken first to enhance flavor. While it marinates, prepare the masala sauce to save time and ensure everything cooks harmoniously.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or paneer for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or garam masala for added depth of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain creaminess.

Sometimes I whip up this dish when friends drop by unexpectedly, and their delighted faces are the best feedback ever!

FAQ

What’s the best way to marinate chicken for tikka masala?

Marinate chicken overnight in yogurt and spices for optimal flavor penetration.

Can I make chicken tikka masala spicy?

Absolutely! Add more chili powder or fresh green chilies according to your taste preferences.

What should I serve with chicken tikka masala?

Serve it with basmati rice or naan bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

Print

Delicious Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Rachel Lawson
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of homemade chicken tikka masala, the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken in a creamy tomato sauce with an array of spices. Perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests, this dish guarantees smiles and second helpings. With just a few essential ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be savoring every bite in no time.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup thick tomato sauce
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp ginger paste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt to taste
• Oil for sautéing

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, ginger paste, cumin, coriander, and lemon juice. Add chicken breasts and coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onions until golden brown.
3. Stir in tomato sauce and coconut milk; simmer gently.
4. Add marinated chicken to the sauce and cook for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
5. Stir in garam masala and cilantro just before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 95mg