Chicken Tikka Masala: Exquisite Explosion of Indian Flavors

Chicken Tikka Masala is a timeless Indian dish adored globally for its flavorful marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. The juxtaposition of tenderized chicken and aromatic spices creates a dish that is both warming and indulgent.

Ingredients

For the chicken marinade:
500g boneless chicken, cut into cubes
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp garam masala
Salt, to taste

For the sauce:
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 large can of crushed tomatoes (800g)
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp chili powder (optional, adjust to taste)
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, ground coriander, garam masala, and salt.
2. Add the chicken cubes and mix well so that the chicken is completely coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken:
1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers or arrange them on a baking tray lined with foil.
3. Bake the chicken for about 20 minutes or until cooked through and slightly charred. You can also grill them on a barbecue.

3. Make the Sauce:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until golden brown.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the tomato paste and cook an additional 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Add ground cumin, paprika, garam masala, and chili powder (if using). Season with salt to taste and let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce becomes thick and creamy.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
1. Add the cooked chicken into the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
2. Simmer for another 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.

5. Serve:
1. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
2. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Savor the complex, rich flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala and enjoy a culinary journey through Indian cuisine.