Chiken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most beloved and globally recognized Indian dishes, featuring tender, marinated chicken chunks cooked in a rich, creamy, and spiced tomato-based gravy. This dish is known for its smoky, charred flavor from the grilled chicken (tikka) and the luxurious, mildly spiced sauce that makes it a favorite in Indian restaurants worldwide.
Inroduction
About this Recipe
By: Aishwarya
Introduction to Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most beloved and globally recognized Indian dishes, featuring tender, marinated chicken chunks cooked in a rich, creamy, and spiced tomato-based gravy. This dish is known for its smoky, charred flavor from the grilled chicken (tikka) and the luxurious, mildly spiced sauce that makes it a favorite in Indian restaurants worldwide.
Though its exact origins are debated, Chicken Tikka Masala is believed to have been popularized in the UK, where Indian chefs adapted traditional Indian recipes to suit British tastes. Today, it remains a staple of Indian cuisine, loved for its perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and deep, savory flavors. Whether served with naan or rice, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500 grams boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil (for grilling or pan-frying)
For the Masala (Gravy):
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt.
- Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil.
- Place the marinated chicken pieces on the pan, discarding any excess marinade.
- Grill or pan-fry the chicken until fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Masala (Gravy):
- In a large pan, heat butter or oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw aroma disappears.
- Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
- Incorporate red chili powder, paprika (if using), turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes to blend the spices.
- Combine Chicken and Masala:
- Add the cooked chicken pieces to the masala, stirring to coat them evenly with the gravy.
- Pour in the heavy cream or coconut cream, mixing thoroughly.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and add sugar if desired to balance the flavors.
- Simmer the curry for 5-10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors and the gravy to thicken to your preferred consistency.
- Serve:
- Garnish the Chicken Tikka Masala with freshly chopped cilantro leaves.
- Serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or roti.
Tips:
- Marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer enhances the depth of flavor in the dish.
- Cooking the Chicken: Achieving a slight char on the chicken pieces adds a smoky flavor reminiscent of traditional tandoori cooking.
- Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream to achieve your desired level of richness in the gravy.
- Spice Level: Modify the quantity of red chili powder and paprika to suit your heat preference.
Enjoy preparing and savoring this delightful Chicken Tikka Masala!
