Chicken Tikka Masala
Introduction
Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish made with chicken that has been marinated in spices and yogurt, then grilled or baked. The chicken is then simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce. It is typically served with rice or naan bread.
Ingredients
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 4 cloves garlic, grated
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Method
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, ginger, garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt. Mix well to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and all of the marinade. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink.
4. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Stir in the cilantro leaves. Serve with rice or naan bread.
Potential changes & improvements
• If you want a more traditional Chicken Tikka Masala, you can grill or bake the chicken instead of cooking it in the pan.
• For a lighter version, you can use light yogurt and light cream.
• To make it spicier, you can add more cayenne pepper, or add some chopped jalapeño peppers to the dish.
What other food it works well with
Chicken Tikka Masala goes well with rice or naan bread.
Common Mistakes
• Not marinating the chicken for long enough. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be.
• Not cooking the chicken all the way through. Be sure to cook the chicken until it is no longer pink in the center.
Nutritional Information
Allergens
This dish contains dairy and gluten.