Description
This rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced Chicken Tikka Masala will make you ditch delivery for good! One bite and you’re hooked.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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)
Instructions
- 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).
- 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.
- Sauté the Base: In a large pan, melt butter. Add onion and sauté until golden. Add garlic and ginger, cook 1 minute.
- Add Spices & Simmer: Stir in garam masala, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds. Add tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes.
- 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.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.
Notes
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!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian