Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that combines tender chunks of marinated chicken with a rich, aromatic sauce. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this recipe brings the vibrant flavors of spices and creamy texture into one delightful meal, perfect for a comforting dinner or an impressive gathering with friends and family.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:
🐔 5 chicken breasts
🧄 2 tablespoons ginger garlic paste
🥛 1 cup plain yogurt
🍋 The juice of 1 lemon
🌿 1 tablespoon garam masala
🌶️ 1 tablespoon Kashmiri chili
🧂 1 teaspoon salt
🌿 2 teaspoons cumin
🌾 1 teaspoon coriander
🌿 1 teaspoon turmeric
🛢️ 1/4 cup oil for pan frying the chicken

For the Sauce:
🫒 3 tablespoons olive oil
🧅 1 large onion (diced)
🧄 2 tablespoons ginger garlic paste
🌶️ 1 tablespoon Kashmiri chili
🧂 2 teaspoons salt
🌿 1 teaspoon cumin
🌾 1 teaspoon coriander
🌿 1 teaspoon turmeric
🌿 1 teaspoon garam masala
🍅 28oz crushed tomatoes
💧 1/2 cup water
🥛 1 cup heavy cream

For Garnish:
🌿 Cilantro
🥛 Heavy cream

Instructions

1- Prepare the Marinade:

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts with ginger garlic paste, yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, Kashmiri chili, salt, cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
• Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight, for enhanced flavor.

2- Cook the Chicken:

• Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is sizzling, add the marinated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside, repeating until all chicken is cooked.

3- Prepare the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Sauté the diced onions and ginger garlic paste for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Stir in the Kashmiri chili, salt, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, sautéing for 30 seconds to release the spices' aroma.

4- Simmer the Sauce:

• Pour in the crushed tomatoes and water, covering the skillet.
• Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.

5- Combine Chicken and Sauce:

• Stir in the heavy cream, and then return the cooked chicken and its juices to the pan.
• Allow to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6- Serve:

• Garnish with a drizzle of heavy cream and cilantro.
• Serve hot, accompanied by white rice and naan for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Proteins: 32g
Fats: 29g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Equipment: Large bowl, skillet, spatula

Cooking Tips

• For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Use fresh spices for a more vibrant taste.

#delicious #indiancuisine #spices #comfortfood #chickentikkamasala #authenticrecipe #homecooking

YouTube channel - EmanInTheKitchen: https://www.youtube.com/@EmanInTheKitchen

Chicken Tikka Masala