Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garam masala; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the rich and creamy allure of Chicken Tikka Masala, a beloved classic that features succulent pieces of marinated chicken simmered in a fragrant tomato sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe brings traditional Indian flavors right into your kitchen, making it a perfect dinner idea for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Serve it with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice for a comforting meal that will delight your taste buds.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2025-12-13T16:55:54.379Z

Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish filled with layers of flavor and texture, often enjoyed around the world. Its origins combine elements from Indian and British cuisines, making it both unique and widely loved.

The Origins of Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish that has captured the hearts and palates of food lovers around the world. Its origins are often disputed, with both India and the UK claiming roots in this flavorful classic. Generally, it combines marinated chicken pieces grilled and then simmered in a tomato-based sauce enriched with spices and cream.

The dish is believed to have become popular in the UK during the 1960s and 1970s, often served in Indian restaurants. Its unique blend of North Indian cooking techniques and British preferences for rich, creamy sauces has led to it being considered a symbol of Indian cuisine's fusion with Western tastes.

The bold yet balanced flavors make Chicken Tikka Masala a perfect introduction to Indian cuisine for those new to its diverse offerings. It showcases how spices can enhance flavors while maintaining a creamy, luscious texture.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tikka Masala

To truly enjoy the full experience of Chicken Tikka Masala, serve it with traditional accompaniments such as warm naan bread or fluffy basmati rice. The bread is perfect for scooping up the rich sauce, while rice helps to balance the dish's spiciness and adds a comforting element to each bite.

Consider pairing it with side dishes like raita, a yogurt-based condiment, that cools down the heat from the spices and adds creaminess. Another popular option is vegetable samosas or a fresh green salad, adding textures and complementary flavors to your meal.

Beverages such as mango lassi or a classic Indian chai work beautifully for balancing the robust spices of the dish. These drinks add a sweet and refreshing touch, enhancing your dining experience.

Variations of Chicken Tikka Masala

While the classic Chicken Tikka Masala is delightful, there are many ways to customize this dish to suit your tastes. For example, you can adjust the spice levels by either increasing or decreasing the amount of garam masala and chili powder you use, making it milder or hotter according to your preference.

Vegetable Tikka Masala alternates protein with tofu or a variety of vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian option, still providing a satisfying and aromatic experience. There are also options to make it dairy-free by using coconut milk as a substitute for heavy cream.

Moreover, you can experiment with different marinating techniques, such as adding additional spices like smoked paprika or experimenting with different types of yogurt for unique flavor profiles in the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine all marinade ingredients. Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add oil and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until translucent. Add crushed tomatoes and garam masala, simmering for 10 minutes.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Stir in the cooked chicken and heavy cream. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

Garnish with cilantro and serve with naan or basmati rice.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala!

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits. With chicken as the primary ingredient, this dish provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The spices, including garlic and ginger, are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, enhancing overall health.

The inclusion of yogurt in the marinade adds probiotics, which can aid in digestion and boost gut health. Additionally, the tomatoes in the sauce are rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and promoting healthy skin. While it does contain cream, the dish can be adjusted to be lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Tikka Masala

To achieve optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for as long as possible. Overnight marinating not only enhances the taste but also ensures the meat is tender. When cooking the chicken, ensure your grill or skillet is adequately hot to achieve that perfect char, adding a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.

Don’t skip the use of fresh spices. Whole spices that are freshly ground provide a depth of flavor that dried, pre-ground spices can’t match. Also, don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasoning as you cook; every palate is different, and the perfect balance for your dish may require a little fine-tuning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use tofu instead of chicken?

Yes, for a vegetarian option, marinate and cook tofu in the same way.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day.