How To Make Chicken Tikka Masala

 

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish that consists of marinated grilled chicken pieces in a creamy tomato-based sauce. It is typically served with rice or naan bread and is known for its rich and flavorful taste. The origin of the dish is disputed, but it is widely believed to have originated in the United Kingdom in the 1970s, where it became a popular dish in Indian restaurants.

Ingredients

1. 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2. 1 cup plain yogurt
3. 1 tbsp. lemon juice
4. 2 tsp. ground cumin
5. 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
6. 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
7. 1 tsp. black pepper
8. 1 tbsp. fresh ginger, grated
9. 3 cloves garlic, minced
10. 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
11. 1 small onion, diced
12. 2 tsp. paprika
13. 1 tsp. salt
14. 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
15. 1 cup heavy cream
16. 2 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, black pepper, ginger, and garlic. Mix well.

Add the chicken to the marinade and mix until the chicken is well-coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5-6 minutes, until soft and translucent.

Add the paprika and salt and cook for another minute.

Add the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the heavy cream and chicken to the sauce and stir to combine. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is heated through.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Cooking tips and variations

Here are some cooking tips and variations for Chicken Tikka Masala:

• Marinate the chicken for at least an hour in a mixture of yogurt, spices, and lemon juice to make it tender and flavorful.
• Grill or broil the chicken instead of pan-frying it to add a smoky flavor.
• Use coconut milk instead of cream for a lighter version of the dish.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the recipe for added nutrition and flavor.
• Use tofu or paneer instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala! Enjoy!