Description
This Creamy Tikka Masala with Tender Chicken is a hearty, flavorful, and easy dish designed for busy families, offering a satisfying weeknight meal with warm spices.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced into 1-inch pieces
- 3.5 Tbsp quality Tikka Masala paste or spice blend
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 0.5 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 Tbsp neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice chicken, chop onion, mince garlic, and grate ginger.
- Sauté Onion: Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Brown Chicken: Add diced chicken to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides, about 8 minutes.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for 1 minute. Add Tikka Masala paste and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
- Finish Dish: Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream and heat gently for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
For healthier options, add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Chicken thighs offer more tenderness; breasts are leaner. Use pre-minced aromatics for quick prep. Greek yogurt or coconut milk can be substituted for cream for lighter or dairy-free versions. Avoid boiling after adding cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 33 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (300g)
- Calories: 480 calories
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: easy dinner, family meal, chicken tikka masala, weeknight, quick, Indian inspired, creamy chicken, healthy options, meal prep