Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Chicken Tikka Masala is more than just a dish; it’s a fusion of Indian spices and British influence, creating a rich, flavorful experience. The tender grilled chicken pieces soak in the creamy, aromatic gravy, making it a favorite worldwide. Whether you serve it with Butter Naan or Basmati Rice, it never fails to impress.

The Story Behind Chicken Tikka Masala

The origins of Chicken Tikka Masala are as complex as its flavors. While it’s widely known as an Indian dish, its story is a blend of cultures. Some say it was created by Indian chefs in the UK, who adapted traditional recipes to suit British tastes. The addition of a creamy tomato sauce to grilled chicken tikka made the dish an instant hit. Today, it’s a beloved meal in homes and restaurants around the globe.

Why This Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe Stands Out

This recipe captures the essence of Chicken Tikka Masala with a balance of spices and creaminess. It’s easy to make at home, ensuring that you get the best flavors every time. Using ingredients like Kashmiri red chili powder and kasuri methi gives it an authentic taste, while options like Greek yogurt and fresh tomatoes keep it accessible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Regarding the marinade for chicken:

• 700 grams (1½ lbs.) boneless chicken (thighs or breasts)
• 120 ml (½ cup) Greek yogurt (hung curd)
• ½ to 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (adjust for heat)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon mustard oil (or regular oil)

For the Tikka Masala Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons oil (or ghee)
• 150 grams (1½ cups) finely chopped onions (1 large or 2 medium)
• 1 green chili (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
• ½ to 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (adjust for heat)
• 2 teaspoons garam masala (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1 to 1½ teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 to 2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
• 500 grams (1.1 lbs.) fresh tomatoes (pureed/chopped) or 1¼ cup tomato puree/passata
• 1 cup hot water (double if using cashews)
• 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• ½ cup heavy cream/whipping cream (or ⅓ cup whole raw cashews, 30 grams)

To Garnish:

• 3 tablespoons heavy cream (or any cream)
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves

How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala

1st Step: Marinate the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into 1 to 1½ inch pieces. Ensure there’s no excess moisture by patting them dry with kitchen tissues. 
2. In a mixing bowl, combine red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric, salt, lemon juice, oil, ginger garlic paste, yogurt, and kasuri methi. Mix well. 
3. Cover with cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 48 hours for maximum flavor. If you’re short on time, marinate for at least 3 hours.

2nd Step: Prepare the Tikka Masala Sauce

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pot or pan. Add the finely chopped onions and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Sauté until the onions turn deep golden. 
2. Add ginger garlic paste and green chili. Sauté until fragrant, about 40 to 60 seconds. 
3. Lower the heat and quickly stir in the red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and cumin powder. 
4. Add the tomatoes and cook on medium-high heat until the onion-tomato mixture thickens. Fresh tomatoes will take about 7 to 8 minutes, while tomato puree or passata will take only 2 minutes. 
5. Pour in hot water and mix well. Bring to a rolling boil, then cover and simmer for 12 to 14 minutes until the sauce thickens. 
6. Optional: Cool the sauce, then blend to a smooth puree. This step helps reduce the acidity from canned tomatoes.

3rd Step: Cook the Chicken Tikka

You can cook the marinated chicken using one of these three methods:

1. Grill in Oven: Preheat the oven to 240°C (460°F). Thread the chicken pieces onto metal or soaked bamboo skewers and place them on a prepared tray. Bake for 9 to 10 minutes, then turn and grill for another 9 to 10 minutes. For a charred effect, broil for 2 to 3 minutes. 
2. Cook in a Skillet: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet. Place the chicken pieces in the skillet, spacing them apart. Cook on medium-high heat for 3 minutes on each side until charred but not fully cooked. Remove and cook in batches. 
3. Air Fryer Method: Thread the chicken onto skewers and place them in the air fryer basket or tray. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 6 minutes. Turn and air fry for another 6 minutes. If the chicken dries out, baste with marinade and continue for 2 more minutes until slightly charred.

4th Step: Finish the Tikka Masala

1. After the sauce has simmered for 12 to 14 minutes, add sugar and cream (or cashew cream). Stir well and cook until the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and aromatic. 
2. Add the grilled chicken tikka and crushed kasuri methi to the sauce. Make sure the gravy has reached the desired consistency before adding the chicken. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is tender. 
3. Turn off the heat and garnish with cream and coriander leaves. Serve hot with Butter Naan, roti, paratha, Basmati rice, or Jeera rice.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

• Calories: 483 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg
• Sodium: 728 mg
• Potassium: 555 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Vitamin A: 1482 IU
• Vitamin C: 20 mg
• Calcium: 82 mg
• Iron: 2 mg

Tips for the Best Chicken Tikka Masala

1. Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 8 hours. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, making it tender and flavorful. 
2. Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices make a significant difference in the taste of the dish. If possible, grind your own garam masala and cumin powder. 
3. Cream Alternatives: If you want a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with a mixture of milk and yogurt. Cashew cream is also a great dairy-free option. 
4. Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes give a better flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, canned tomato puree works well too. Just remember to cook it down properly to reduce acidity. 
5. Adjusting Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Kashmiri red chili powder. For more heat, you can add finely chopped green chilies.

FAQs About Chicken Tikka Masala

1. What is the difference between Chicken Tikka and Chicken Tikka Masala?
   • Chicken Tikka refers to grilled chicken pieces marinated in spices, while Chicken Tikka Masala includes those grilled pieces cooked in a creamy, spicy tomato-based sauce. 
2. Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala without cream?
   • Yes, you can use cashew cream, coconut milk, or a mix of yogurt and milk as substitutes. 
3. Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?
   • It can be spicy, but the heat level can be adjusted by reducing the amount of chili powder or omitting green chilies. 
4. What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?
   • It pairs well with Butter Naan, Basmati Rice, Jeera Rice, or any Indian bread like roti or paratha. 
5. Is it possible to substitute chicken breasts for thighs?
   • Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful in this recipe. 
6. How long can I store Chicken Tikka Masala?
   • It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to avoid drying out the chicken. 
7. Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Masala?
   • Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. 
8. What is Kasuri methi, and can I skip it?
   • Kasuri methi is dried fenugreek leaves, which add a unique flavor to the dish. If unavailable, you can skip it, but it adds a distinctive taste. 
9. Is Chicken Tikka Masala gluten-free?
   • Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. 
10. Is it possible to make it vegetarian?
    • Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with paneer, tofu, or mixed vegetables to make a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish that brings the rich flavors of Indian cuisine to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its balance of spices, creamy texture, and tender chicken, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Enjoy it with your favorite Indian bread or rice, and savor the taste of this classic dish!