Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka Marinade:

• 600g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 3cm cubes
• ½ cup plain full-fat yogurt (Greek yogurt works well)
• 6 garlic cloves, minced (around 1.5 tbsp)
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoky)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Pinch of black pepper
• 2 tsp lemon juice

For Cooking the Chicken:

• 1–2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Curry Sauce Spices:

• 2 tsp turmeric
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp cumin
• ⅛ tsp cardamom powder
• ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper

For the Curry Sauce:

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter or ghee
• 1 finely chopped onion (brown, white, or yellow)
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 6 garlic cloves, minced or grated
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 400ml tomato passata (pureed tomatoes)
• 400ml water
• 100ml cream (thickened or pure)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 50g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter or ghee

To Serve:

• Basmati rice or naan bread
• Fresh coriander/cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, ginger, spices, oil, lemon juice, and salt.

2. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.

4. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a non-stick pan over high heat.

5. Add half the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 2 minutes on one side until slightly charred. Flip and repeat.

6. Remove from the pan, and repeat with the remaining chicken. Set aside.

7. Wipe the skillet clean, reduce heat to medium-high, and add oil and butter.

8. Once melted, sauté onions with salt until soft and golden (5–7 minutes).

9. Stir in ginger, garlic, and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes.

10. Add the curry sauce spices, cooking for another 2 minutes.

11. Stir in tomato passata and water. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes on low heat.

12. Blend the sauce until smooth using a stick blender (optional for creaminess).

13. Return sauce to the skillet. Add cream, sugar, and butter. Stir until butter melts.

14. Add the cooked chicken to the curry sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

15. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with basmati rice or naan bread.

Chicken Tikka Masala is the ultimate blend of smoky, marinated chicken and rich, spiced curry sauce. While it may seem elaborate, the process is straightforward, and the result is a dish bursting with flavor. Perfect for a special family dinner or impressing your guests! Try pairing it with naan or a refreshing cucumber salad for an authentic Indian meal. Enjoy the culinary magic in every bite!