Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe: Step by Step Guide

Discover the secrets to making the perfect Chicken Tikka Masala with this authentic recipe.

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular dish originating from India, known for its mouth-watering flavor and tender, juicy chicken. In this recipe, we’ll take you through each step of the process, from marinating the chicken to grilling and making the delicious sauce. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to make a restaurant-quality Chicken Tikka Masala in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 lemon, juiced
• For the sauce:
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste

Marination

Marination is an important step in the process of making Chicken Tikka Masala as it helps to add flavor and tenderize the chicken. To marinate the chicken, mix together the yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, paprika, salt, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Add the chicken and make sure it’s fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight.

Grilling

Grilling the chicken adds a smoky, charred flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy sauce. You can grill the chicken using a grill, grill pan, or even in the oven. If using a grill, preheat to high heat and oil the grates. If using a grill pan or oven, preheat to 425°F. Arrange the chicken on the grill or in the pan/on a baking sheet and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and charred in spots.

Sauce

To make the sauce, heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the tomato paste, paprika, garam masala, chili powder, coriander, and cumin and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Season with salt to taste.

Assembly

To assemble the final dish, add the grilled chicken to the saucepan with the sauce and gently stir to coat the chicken in the sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Serve over rice or with naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped tomatoes, if desired.

In conclusion, Chicken Tikka Masala is a delicious and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. By following this step-by-step recipe, you can make a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. The key to success is high-quality, fresh spices and proper marination and grilling techniques. So, go ahead and give it a try and enjoy the taste of India!