Homemade Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
45
min
877
Calories
29g
Fats
0g
Carbs
65g
Protein
Craving authentic Indian flavor at home? This Easy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe brings the rich, creamy taste of India right to your kitchen! Perfect for a cozy dinner, it's packed with protein and aromatic spices, ensuring a meal that's as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin your culinary journey by cutting the chicken breasts into large, 2-inch thick chunks, creating the perfect base for our flavor infusion. Next, let's marinate these chunks by combining them with a pre-rub mix of coriander, cumin, and salt. This not only enriches the chicken with the depths of Indian spices but also tenderizes it, ensuring every bite is both flavorful and succulent. Allow this to sit and mingle for approximately 20 minutes at room temperature, or for an even deeper flavor, refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
Pro Tip: Patting the chicken dry before applying the rub ensures better adhesion and flavor absorption.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a large, heavy pot or a Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the cooking oil before adding the finely chopped onions and garlic. The key here is patience, as we sauté these ingredients until they reach a golden-brown glory. This process is not just about cooking; it's about layering flavors, where onions and garlic meld together, forming a fragrant base that will later intertwine seamlessly with the spices and yogurt.
Pro Tip: Low and slow is the mantra for perfectly browned onions and garlic, without any bitterness.
Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients
With our aromatic base ready, it's time to introduce the remaining spices (not including the chicken yet) into the pot. Stir these continuously for about 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the spices to gently toast and unleash their aromatic oils, which are key to the authentic flavor profile of Chicken Tikka Masala. This step is essential in achieving that depth of flavor that we often adore in Indian cuisine.
Pro Tip: Adding a splash of water can prevent the spices from burning while toasting.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Now, for the main act - add your marinated chicken into the pot, covering it with our beautifully spiced sauce. Cook this over medium heat for 25 to 30 minutes, periodically stirring to ensure even cooking and absorption of flavors. As we approach the grand finale, stir in the yogurt, transforming the sauce into a velvety, rich curry. Should you find the curry too thick, feel free to adjust its consistency with a bit of water, tailoring it to your preference.
Pro Tip: The key to tender chicken is to avoid overcooking. Keep an eye on it!
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once your Chicken Tikka Masala has thickened to perfection, remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together even further. Serve this luscious curry over a bed of warm, sticky rice, or even basmati if you prefer. The creaminess of the curry paired with the delicate rice creates a balance of textures and flavors that's simply irresistible.
Pro Tip: Letting the curry sit for a few minutes before serving enhances its flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Finally, garnish your beautifully plated Chicken Tikka Masala with fresh cilantro leaves. This not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a fresh, herby element that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy richness of the curry. It's now time to gather around the table and indulge in a dish that promises to transport you straight to the heart of India, all from the comfort of your home.
Pro Tip: Chop the cilantro just before garnishing to maintain its vibrant color and freshness.
