Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chicken Tikka Masala

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish featuring marinated grilled chicken pieces simmered in a spiced tomato and cream sauce, perfect with rice or naan.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground paprika
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the fridge.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear marinated chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, heat remaining oil and sauté onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes until thickened slightly.
  5. Lower heat and stir in cream. Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 10 minutes until sauce is creamy and flavorful.
  6. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Notes

  • Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • Adjust spice level with extra chili powder or cayenne.
  • Grill or broil the marinated chicken for a smoky flavor before adding to the sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup chicken with sauce
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg