Description
Chicken Tikka Masala is a creamy, tomato-based curry with aromatic spices and tender chicken. This recipe delivers an authentic experience for a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 800g (1.75lb) chicken thighs, cubed: For tenderness and flavor.
- 200g (7oz) full-fat yogurt: Crucial for tenderizing the chicken.
- 2 tbsp (30ml) lemon juice: Adds brightness and tenderizes.
- 1 tsp (5g) salt: For seasoning.
- 1 tsp (5g) cumin: Earthy, warm base note.
- 1 tsp (5g) coriander: Citrusy aroma.
- 1 tsp (5g) garam masala: Essential for authentic flavor.
- 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth.
- 0.5 tsp (2.5g) turmeric: Color and mild flavor.
- 1 tsp (5g) chili powder: Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp (5g) ginger paste: Pungent, zesty flavor.
- 1 tsp (5g) garlic paste: Savory, aromatic base.
- 2 tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil: For cooking.
- 1 tbsp (15g) ghee: Rich, nutty flavor.
- 1 large onion (150g/5oz), chopped: Flavor base.
- 400g (14oz) tomato puree: Sauce foundation.
- 150ml (5fl oz) water: Adjusts sauce consistency.
- 100ml (3.5fl oz) heavy cream: Silky texture and richness.
- 1 tsp (5g) kasuri methi: Unique aromatic flavor.
- 15g (0.5oz) cilantro, chopped: Herbaceous garnish.
- 1 tsp (5ml) pomegranate molasses: Sweet-tart glaze.
- 5g (0.2oz) microgreens: Freshness and visual appeal.
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Combine yogurt, lemon juice, spices, and chicken. Refrigerate for 30-45 minutes.
- Grill Chicken: Grill or broil chicken until cooked through and charred.
- Sauté Onions: Sauté chopped onion in oil and ghee until golden brown.
- Bloom Spices & Build Sauce: Stir in marinade, tomato puree, and water. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Create Creamy Masala: Whisk in cream and kasuri methi. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Combine & Simmer: Add grilled chicken to sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Rest & Finish: Let rest for 2 minutes.
- Plate & Garnish: Arrange chicken and sauce, drizzle with molasses, and garnish with cilantro and microgreens.
Notes
Using full-fat yogurt is crucial for tenderness. Kasuri methi is a key ingredient for authentic flavor. Adjust chili powder to your preferred heat level.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Indian
- Method: Grill/Broil
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: chicken tikka masala,indian,curry,chicken,spicy,yogurt,creamy,dinner