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Delicious Chicken Tikka Masala served with rice and naan bread

Chicken Tikka Masala

A comforting and creamy Indian-inspired dish featuring marinated chicken in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for sharing around the table.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Indian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into even cubes for uniform cooking.
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt Full-fat for creaminess; nonfat works for lower calories.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Use fresh for the best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter Can use ghee for more authentic flavor.
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes San Marzano-style preferred.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Optional to balance acidity.
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro For garnish.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice For finishing.
Seasoning and Optional Adjustments
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Marinating
  1. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Heat oil in a large pot and sear the marinated chicken until browned. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt butter and sauté onions until golden. Add garlic, ginger, and remaining spices; cook until fragrant.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes; simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. Return chicken to the pot, add cream, and simmer until cooked through.
  5. Garnish with cilantro and lemon juice before serving.

Notes

For a vegan version, replace chicken with firm tofu and heavy cream with coconut cream. Adjust spices to balance sweetness.