Mouth-Watering Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe That Beats Takeout

Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala

This rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced Chicken Tikka Masala will make you ditch delivery for good! One bite and you’re hooked.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 35 min
Total Time: 50 min

Ingredients

For Chicken Marinade:

• 500g boneless chicken thighs, cubed
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp salt

For Masala Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter or ghee
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 ½ tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp chili powder
• 1 ½ cups tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, and all marinade spices. Add chicken, mix well, and marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).

2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until browned and slightly charred, about 4–5 minutes per side. Set aside.

3. Sauté the Base
In a large pan, melt butter. Add onion and sauté until golden. Add garlic and ginger, cook 1 minute.

4. Add Spices & Simmer
Stir in garam masala, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds. Add tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Finish the Sauce
Stir in cream. Simmer another 10 minutes until thickened and silky. Add cooked chicken and let it simmer for 5–10 minutes so flavors combine.

6. Serve
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.

Pro Tips

• Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful bites.
• For a lighter version, sub heavy cream with coconut milk.
• This dish tastes even better the next day — perfect for meal prep!

Nutrition Info

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 plate	420	35g	20g	25g	3g	6g

Nutrition facts are estimates based on standard ingredients. Adjustments may vary.

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