Classic Chicken Tikka Masala: A Flavorful Dance of Tender Chicken in Spiced Tomato Cream Sauce
Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish that features marinated and grilled chicken chunks, enveloped in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. Its harmonious blend of spices and rich flavors have made it a favorite around the globe. The dish is typically served with naan or rice.
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
- For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers or place directly on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from the grill and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and ginger-garlic paste, and sauté for another 2 minutes.
- Add Spices: Stir in turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and garam masala. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
- Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens and deepens in color.
- Finish the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with naan or rice.
Enjoy your delicious and aromatic Chicken Tikka Masala, a dish that brings the essence of Indian culinary artistry to your table!