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Chicken Tikka Masala

Flavorful Chicken Tikka Masala You Can Master at Home

This Chicken Tikka Masala perfectly blends spices, creaminess, and smoky notes for a delightful home-cooked meal.
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 kg Boneless Chicken Thighs/Breasts Choose thighs for extra juiciness
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Opt for strained yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons Kashmiri Red Chili Powder Adjust quantity based on spice preference
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor enhancement
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Adds acidity to balance flavors
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Oil/Ghee Use mustard oil for authentic taste
  • 2 medium Onions Finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger Garlic Paste Can substitute with fresh ginger and garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder Adds color and earthy flavor
  • 2 teaspoons Garam Masala Adjust to taste
  • 2 teaspoons Coriander Powder
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin Powder
  • 2 cups Tomatoes Fresh or canned, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity from tomatoes
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with cashew cream for dairy-free option
  • 1 tablespoon Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) Infuses a unique aroma and flavor
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Coriander Leaves Adds freshness when sprinkled on top

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • bowl
  • Grill

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting your boneless chicken thighs or breasts into sizable chunks. In a bowl, combine these pieces with Greek yogurt, Kashmiri red chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Ensure all the chicken is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate this mixture for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  2. In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil or ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add finely chopped onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook the onions for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown.
  3. Incorporate ginger garlic paste and optional chili. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in turmeric, garam masala, coriander, and cumin powders. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add chopped tomatoes and cook for about 10 minutes until sauce thickens.
  5. Pour in about one cup of hot water, stirring to combine. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes over low heat.
  6. Grill chicken pieces on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, until charred and cooked through.
  7. Stir heavy cream into the simmered sauce, then fold in grilled chicken pieces along with kasuri methi. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes over low heat.
  8. Transfer to a serving dish, drizzle with extra cream and sprinkle with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; for longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

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