Tasty Chicken tikka masala recipe

A famous Pakistani dish famed for its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and delicate bites of marinated chicken is chicken tikka masala. To make a delectable dish that is ideal for sharing with family and friends, this flavorful recipe combines the best Pakistani spices and textures. You can make a home-cooked version of this traditional Pakistani dish with a little preparation and persistence.

What does Chicken tikka masala contians?

Here are the key components of Chicken Tikka Masala:

1.Chicken:
The primary protein in Chicken Tikka Masala is chicken. Boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs are typically used, cut into bite-sized pieces. These chicken pieces are marinated and then grilled or broiled to perfection.

2. Marinade:
   The chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt and various spices. Common marinade ingredients include plain yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and pepper. This marinade infuses the chicken with flavor and tenderness.
3. Tomatoes:
   Tomatoes play a crucial role in the sauce. Often, a combination of diced tomatoes and tomato paste is used to create the tomato-based gravy. The tomatoes add acidity and contribute to the vibrant red color of the sauce.
4. Spices: A blend of aromatic Pakistani spices gives Chicken Tikka Masala its distinctive flavor. Common spices include ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, garam masala, and chili powder. These spices contribute to the dish’s warmth and complexity.

5.Onion, Garlic, and Ginger:
Finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger are sautéed in oil as the base of the sauce. These aromatics provide depth and flavor to the dish.

6.Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is used to create the creamy texture of the sauce. It adds richness and balances the spices, giving the dish its characteristic velvety consistency.

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Prep time: 20 minutes	Cook time: 40 minutes
Rest time : 30 minutes	Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients:

For Marinating the Chicken:

• 1.5 pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tikka Masala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably, a few hours to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Grill or Broil the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
3. Grill or broil the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a slight char. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Tikka Masala Sauce

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and ginger and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, garam masala, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, stir well, and let the sauce simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken further.
6. Add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce and let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the pan from heat and let it rest for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Serve your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala over steamed rice or with warm naan bread. This delightful dish is sure to please your taste buds with its creamy, spicy, and savory goodness. Enjoy!