Description
This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe elevates the classic Indian dish with a luscious coconut-cashew ribbon, adding creamy texture and subtle sweetness. It’s surprisingly easy to make and delivers impressive flavor and visual appeal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 400g (14oz) Chicken Thighs: cut into 2-inch pieces, marinated in yogurt and spices
- 150g (5oz) Plain Yogurt: full-fat, for tenderizing chicken
- 1 tsp (5g) Ground Cumin: warm, earthy flavor
- 1 tsp (5g) Ground Coriander: bright, citrusy note
- 1 tsp (5g) Garam Masala: blend of warming spices
- ½ tsp (2g) Turmeric Powder: color and anti-inflammatory properties
- ½ tsp (2g) Smoked Paprika: hint of smokiness
- ½ tsp (2g) Chili Powder: adjust to taste for heat
- 1 tsp (5g) Salt: seasoning
- 2 tbsp (30ml) Vegetable Oil: for searing and sautéing
- 1 Large Onion: finely chopped, base of the sauce
- 3 Garlic Cloves: minced, pungent aroma
- 1 tbsp (15g) Fresh Ginger: grated, spicy kick
- 400g (14oz) Canned Crushed Tomatoes: body of the sauce
- 200ml (¾ cup) Coconut Milk: full-fat, for creamy sauce
- 100g (3½oz) Raw Cashews: soaked and drained, blended into cream
- 1 tbsp (15ml) Lemon Juice: bright acidity
- ¼ tsp (1g) Sugar: balances acidity
- ½ tsp (2g) Salt (for sauce): sauce seasoning
- 2 tbsp (15g) Unsalted Butter: richness and sheen
- 2 tbsp (10g) Toasted Coconut Flakes: garnish, texture
- 2 tbsp (8g) Fresh Cilantro: chopped, garnish
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Combine yogurt, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Coat chicken, refrigerate 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- Sear Chicken: Sear chicken in oil until lightly charred, working in batches.
- Build Aromatic Base: Sauté onion until golden, then add garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Simmer Tomato Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 8-10 minutes.
- Create Coconut-Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews, coconut milk, lemon juice, sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Combine and Ribbon: Return chicken to sauce, swirl in coconut-cashew cream for a ribbon effect.
- Final Simmer: Simmer for 12-15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with coconut flakes and cilantro, serve with rice or naan.
Notes
For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk and cashews replace traditional cream. Gently swirling the coconut-cashew cream creates a visually appealing ribbon effect and pockets of intense flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Indian
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: chicken tikka masala,indian food,coconut,cashews,easy dinner,comfort food,spicy,creamy,chicken thighs