Chicken Tikka Masala

Easy homemade chicken tikka masala recipe with tender grilled chicken pieces in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Made with yogurt-marinated chicken, aromatic Indian spices, and pantry-friendly ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a comforting curry night. Serve with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete Indian-style meal.

A rich and flavorful Indian-inspired dish with tender pieces of grilled chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. This homemade version brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen using simple ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 3 chicken breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 120 ml (½ cup) Greek or thick natural yogurt (full-fat)
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp mild chili powder (or hot, to taste)
• Pinch of cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing before grilling)

For the Masala Sauce:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp minced ginger
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 red bell pepper, de-seeded and sliced
• 400 g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes
• 120 ml (½ cup) water
• 180 ml (¾ cup) double (heavy) cream
• 3 tbsp ground almonds
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

To Serve:

• Boiled rice
• 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander (cilantro)
• Fresh chopped chillies (optional)

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
   In a large bowl or freezer bag, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, and all the marinade spices. Mix well until the chicken is coated. Cover and refrigerate for 2–3 hours.
2. Prepare the Masala Sauce
   Heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Add Spices and Tomatoes
   Stir in the garlic, ginger, garam masala, coriander, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and tomato purée. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
   Add the sliced red bell pepper, canned tomatoes, and water. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
4. Grill the Chicken
   Preheat the grill. Spread the marinated chicken onto a baking sheet and brush with oil. Grill for 8–10 minutes until slightly charred and cooked through. Turn pieces if needed to ensure even cooking.
5. Finish the Sauce
   Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the cream, ground almonds, and brown sugar. Add the grilled chicken and simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through.
6. Serve
   Serve the chicken tikka masala over boiled rice. Garnish with fresh coriander and chopped chillies if desired.

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Tips

• Marinating the chicken for a few hours (or overnight) enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Grill the chicken for a slightly smoky, restaurant-style taste.
• Adjust spice levels by increasing or reducing the chili powder and fresh chillies.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Swap chicken for lamb, paneer, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Cream substitute: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
• No grill? You can pan-fry or oven-bake the chicken if grilling isn’t possible.

FAQs

Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Masala?
Yes. Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Do I have to use Greek yogurt for the marinade?
Greek yogurt is preferred for its thickness, but plain natural yogurt also works well.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, but grilling fresh marinated chicken gives a more authentic flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with basmati rice, naan bread, or jeera (cumin) rice.
• Add a side of cucumber raita or mango chutney to cool down the spice.
• A fresh salad or lentil dal makes a complete Indian-inspired meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-quality flavor at home
• Rich, creamy, and aromatic sauce
• Grilled chicken stays juicy and flavorful
• Customizable spice level
• Great for meal prep or entertaining