Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts around the world. This flavorful and aromatic curry showcases a harmonious blend of spices, tender chicken pieces, and creamy sauce. If you're looking for an authentic yet approachable recipe, this one fits perfectly. Let's dive into how to prepare this delicious Chicken Tikka Masala.

The dish is typically served with naan bread or rice, but it can also be enjoyed alongside some basmati rice if preferred. The total cooking time for the main course is approximately 45 minutes, including marination and final simmering of the curry sauce. This recipe serves four people generously; you'll enjoy a hearty meal that's sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 600g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup natural yogurt (Greek is preferable)
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• For the curry sauce:
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 green cardamom pods (optional)
• 6 black peppercorns
• 4 bay leaves
• 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken Tikka

Mix together all marinade ingredients except salt in a large bowl. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are well-coated with the yogurt mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours, preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Preparing the Curry Sauce

In a separate saucepan or wok over medium heat, add oil and let it warm up slightly. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add all spices (cardamom pods, peppercorns, bay leaves) and stir well to release their aromas.

Add grated ginger and minced garlic; sauté for another couple of minutes until the garlic turns golden brown. Then add 1/2 cup water or enough broth to cover the ingredients in the pot. Bring to a simmer and let it cook down by half, about 20-25 minutes.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade), and place it on a grill pan or in an oven preheated to 400°F. Grill or roast for about 10-12 minutes until cooked through, basting occasionally with additional yogurt if desired.

Step 4: Combining the Curry Sauce & Chicken

Once your chicken is done, add it into the curry sauce along with heavy cream and salt. Stir gently to combine. Simmer for an additional 5-8 minutes until the flavors are well-integrated. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serving

Serve Chicken Tikka Masala hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if preferred. It pairs beautifully with naan bread or basmati rice to soak up all that yummy sauce. Enjoy this traditional yet adaptable recipe!

Tips and Variations

• Grilling Options: For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken on an outdoor grill for about 10-15 minutes instead of baking.
• Cooking Time Adjustments: If you're in a rush, you can omit the marination step and cook the dish as soon as all ingredients come together. It may slightly alter the texture but will still be delicious.
• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegan version of Chicken Tikka Masala. Adjust marinade accordingly to complement tofu's flavor profile.

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p>In conclusion, Chicken Tikka Masala is not only a staple in Indian cuisine but also an international favorite due to its versatility and richness of flavors. By following this simple recipe, you can create a dish that will leave everyone at the table satisfied and asking for more!