Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground coriander; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe features tender chicken marinated in spices and yogurt, cooked in a rich and creamy tomato sauce.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-22T22:15:41.395Z

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that originated in India and has become a staple in many households around the world. The combination of marinated chicken, spices, and a velvety sauce makes it a favorite for dinner parties and casual family meals alike.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and aromatic spices that create a delicious depth of flavor
Creamy sauce that's perfect for soaking up with naan or rice
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

      

The Origins of Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish that beautifully marries Indian and British culinary traditions. Its origins are often debated, but many believe it was created by South Asian chefs in the UK who sought to cater to British tastes. The dish features marinated chicken that is grilled and then simmered in a creamy tomato sauce, making it a favorite among those who enjoy rich and flavorful dishes.

Traditionally, the chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, which not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a depth of flavor. This process is key to achieving the authentic taste of Chicken Tikka Masala, and it sets the stage for the delicious sauce that follows.

Perfect Pairings

One of the best aspects of Chicken Tikka Masala is its versatility when it comes to side dishes. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, which helps to soak up the rich flavors. Alternatively, you can serve it with warm naan bread for a truly authentic experience. The combination of dipping naan into the sauce is a blissful moment that every food lover should experience.

For a complete meal, consider adding a side of vegetable samosas or a fresh cucumber raita. These accompaniments not only enhance the dining experience but also provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the Chicken Tikka Masala.

Cooking Tips and Variations

To ensure your Chicken Tikka Masala is bursting with flavor, be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, although overnight is ideal. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish. If you're short on time, even a quick marinade will still yield delicious results.

Feel free to customize the recipe to your taste! For a spicier kick, add extra chili powder or toss in some diced green chilies. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free version that still retains the creamy texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt to taste

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting the cooking process to ensure a smooth experience.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.

Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken (discard excess marinade) and cook until golden and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes to thicken.

Stir in heavy cream and return chicken to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as necessary.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala, a flavorful dish that brings the taste of India right to your table!

Storing and Reheating

Chicken Tikka Masala is a great dish for meal prep! After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

To maintain the creamy texture of the sauce when reheating, add a splash of water or cream to the dish. This will help to restore its consistency and prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.

Nutritional Information

Chicken Tikka Masala is not only delectable but can also be part of a balanced diet. While it does contain cream, the use of boneless chicken thighs provides a good source of protein. Pairing it with vegetables or a side salad can enhance the nutritional value of your meal.

Keep in mind that the calorie content can vary based on the ingredients used and portion size. If you're looking to reduce calories, consider using less cream or substituting with yogurt, which can still give you that creamy texture without the extra calories.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts, but they may be less tender than thighs.

→ Is this dish spicy?

You can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder used.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.