Just cooked up a batch of mouthwatering Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala! This spicy and flavorful dish will satisfy all your cravings! try this chicken tikka masala at home for a family dinner or lunch.
Ingredients for Chicken Tikka Masala
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions Chicken Tikka Masala
1/ In a bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator.
2/ Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and grill for about 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from the skewers and set aside.
3/ In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4/ Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5/ Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6/ Add the grilled chicken pieces to the skillet and stir well to coat them with the sauce. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
7/ Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt to taste.
8/ Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread.
Preparation time
1 hour (including marination time)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings Chicken Tikka Masala
This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering of friends. Serve it along with tandoori roti, chapati or naan bread to savor the flavors to the fullest.
Tricks and Tips To Enhance Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala
Marinating the Chicken: Marinate the chicken in a yogurt-based marinade before cooking. This helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
Tandoori Cooking Method: For an authentic flavor, consider grilling or broiling the marinated chicken instead of simply cooking it in a pan. This gives the chicken a smoky and charred taste similar to tandoori chicken.
Creamy Tomato Base: Prepare a rich and creamy tomato base for the tikka masala sauce. Add tomato puree or diced tomatoes and simmer until the tomatoes break down and release their flavors.
Butter and Cream: To enhance the richness and creaminess of the dish, incorporate butter and cream. Finish the sauce by adding a splash of cream, stirring it gently to combine. This adds a luscious texture and enhances the overall flavor.
Fenugreek Leaves: For an authentic touch, sprinkle some dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) into the sauce. Crush the leaves between your palms before adding them to release their aroma. Fenugreek leaves add a slightly bitter and herbaceous flavor that complements the dish well.
Adjusting the Sweetness: Chicken Tikka Masala typically has a touch of sweetness. If desired, add a little honey or sugar to balance the flavors.
Gravy Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the gravy to your preference. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the gravy for longer to reduce it.
Enjoy your meal With Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala!
Nutrition Facts
The approximate nutrition facts for a serving of Chicken Tikka Masala, which can vary depending on the specific recipe and portion size:
Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240 grams)
Calories: Approximately 300-400 calories per serving
Macronutrients
- Protein: 15-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-4 grams
- Fat: 15-25 grams
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin A: Varies depending on the amount of tomatoes, cream, and spices used.
- Vitamin C: Varies depending on the amount of tomatoes and other sources of vitamin C.
- Calcium: Varies depending on the recipe, but it may contribute around 10-15% of the daily recommended intake.
- Iron: Varies depending on the ingredients, but it may contribute around 10-15% of the daily recommended intake.
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used in your Chicken Tikka Masala recipe. It’s a good idea to refer to the nutrition label on packaged ingredients and use a nutrition calculator for precise values if you have dietary concerns or specific dietary goals. Additionally, the calorie and nutrient content can vary based on factors like the amount of cream or other sources of fat used in the recipe.
FAQ Chicken Tikka Masala
Q1: What is Chicken Tikka Masala? A1: Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish made with marinated and grilled chicken pieces served in a creamy and flavorful tomato-based sauce.
Q2: How is the chicken prepared in Chicken Tikka Masala? A2: The chicken is typically marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, then skewered and grilled or baked until it’s tender and has a smoky flavor.
Q3: What is the key ingredient in the sauce? A3: The sauce is made with a rich blend of tomatoes, cream, and various spices. Garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric are often used to create the distinct flavor profile.
Q4: Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy? A4: The level of spiciness can vary, but it’s generally mild to moderately spicy. You can adjust the heat by controlling the amount of chili powder or using mild spices.
Q5: Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala with other meats? A5: Yes, you can. While chicken is traditional, you can use lamb, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), or even vegetables to make a variation of the dish.
Q6: How can I make Chicken Tikka Masala at home? A6: Start by marinating chicken in yogurt and spices, then grill or bake it. For the sauce, cook onions, tomatoes, and spices, add cream, and finally, combine with the cooked chicken.
Q7: What are common side dishes to serve with Chicken Tikka Masala? A7: Naan bread, rice (such as basmati), or roti are popular choices. You can also serve it with a side of raita (yogurt with spices and herbs) or a fresh salad.
Q8: Can I make it ahead of time? A8: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Q9: Is Chicken Tikka Masala gluten-free? A9: The dish can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free yogurt and ensure that the spices and other ingredients are free from gluten contamination.
Q10: Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Masala? A10: Yes, you can freeze Chicken Tikka Masala. Store it in airtight containers and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating. However, the texture may slightly change upon reheating.
