Creamy, spicy, and aromatic—Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved classic for good reason. This dish features marinated chicken grilled or seared to smoky perfection, then simmered in a luxurious tomato-based curry sauce spiced with garam masala, cumin, garlic, and ginger. Rich with flavor yet surprisingly easy to make at home, it’s a restaurant-quality dish that brings bold Indian flavors to your kitchen without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Big, bold flavors with minimal prep.
The creamy tomato sauce is utterly addictive.
Pairs beautifully with naan or basmati rice.
Meal-prep friendly and freezer-friendly.
A satisfying dinner that beats takeout any day.
Ingredients for Chicken Tikka Masala
You won’t need a ton, but what you do need matters. Let’s check it out.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, perfect for soaking up the flavors.
Plain yogurt: This acts as a marinade, tenderizing the chicken and adding a tangy flavor.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the dish and balances the spices.
Ground cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in Indian cuisine.
Ground coriander: It brings a citrusy note that complements the other spices beautifully.
Garam masala: A blend of spices that adds depth and warmth to the dish.
Turmeric: This gives the sauce a vibrant color and a subtle, earthy flavor.
Paprika: Adds a mild sweetness and a lovely red hue to the sauce.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing, it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Onion: Finely chopped, it forms the base of the sauce, adding sweetness and depth.
Garlic and ginger: These aromatics bring a punch of flavor and warmth to the dish.
Crushed tomatoes: They create the rich, saucy base that makes this dish so comforting.
Heavy cream: This adds richness and creaminess, making the sauce luxurious.
Fresh cilantro: For garnish, it adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick. If you prefer a lighter option, coconut milk can be used instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Making Chicken Tikka Masala is straightforward, and I promise it’ll be worth every minute spent in the kitchen. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that’ll impress anyone at your table.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining the yogurt, lemon juice, and spices in a large bowl. This marinade is the heart of the dish, infusing the chicken with flavor. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least an hour. If you have time, overnight is even better. The longer it sits, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your Chicken Tikka Masala. Don’t rush it; let those onions caramelize a bit for extra sweetness.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Next, stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook them for another 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s a good sign! These two ingredients add a warm, zesty kick that elevates the dish.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Now it’s time to add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on all sides. This step is crucial; you want that beautiful color and flavor to develop. Don’t worry if it sticks a little; just scrape it up as you stir.
Step 5: Simmer with Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that rich, comforting sauce we all love.
Step 6: Stir in the Cream
Finally, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. This is where the magic happens! The cream transforms the sauce into a luscious, velvety delight. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once it’s perfect, you’re ready to serve!
Tips for Success
Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Don’t rush the sautéing process; caramelized onions add depth to the sauce.
Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or cayenne to taste.
Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Equipment Needed
Large bowl: For marinating the chicken. A mixing bowl works just as well.
Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for even cooking. A non-stick pan can also do the job.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping the bottom of the skillet.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping onions, garlic, and ginger.
Variations of Chicken Tikka Masala
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Spicy Twist: Add extra chili powder or fresh green chilies to the marinade for a fiery kick.
Coconut Cream Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free and tropical flavor.
Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
Grilled Chicken Tikka: Grill the marinated chicken before adding it to the sauce for a smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tikka Masala
Serve with Basmati Rice: The fluffy rice soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
Pair with Naan: Soft, warm naan is perfect for scooping up every last bit.
Complement with Raita: A cooling yogurt sauce balances the spices.
Enjoy with a Cold Beer: A crisp lager or pale ale enhances the flavors.
Garnish with Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about Chicken Tikka Masala
What is Chicken Tikka Masala?
Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a spiced tomato sauce. The combination of yogurt, spices, and cream creates a rich and creamy flavor that’s hard to resist.
Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Chicken Tikka Masala a day in advance. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious!
Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. If you like it mild, simply reduce the amount of chili powder or skip it altogether. For those who enjoy a kick, feel free to add more spices!
What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?
This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with raita, a cooling yogurt sauce, to balance the spices.
Can I make a vegetarian version of Chicken Tikka Masala?
Yes! You can easily substitute the chicken with paneer, chickpeas, or even tofu for a hearty vegetarian option. The cooking method remains the same, ensuring a flavorful dish.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Chicken Tikka Masala is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your kitchen. The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken come together to form a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this meal brings a taste of India right to your table. Plus, the smiles and compliments you’ll receive are the cherry on top. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the spices, and let this Chicken Tikka Masala become a beloved staple in your home!
A rich and creamy Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a spiced tomato sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, over rice or with naan.
Notes
For a spicier version, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
For a lighter option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
