Chicken Tikka Masala: A Deliciously Spiced Indian Curry

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish known for its creamy tomato-based sauce and rich flavors. This dish features marinated chicken cooked in a fragrant, spiced curry sauce. Perfect for a cozy meal, it pairs wonderfully with naan bread or steamed rice.

Ingredients:

#### For the Chicken Marinade:- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces- 1 cup plain yogurt- 1 tbsp lemon juice- 2 tsp ground cumin- 2 tsp ground coriander- 1 tsp turmeric- 1 tsp ground garam masala- 1 tsp paprika- 1 tsp cayenne pepper- 2 cloves garlic, minced- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated- Salt to taste

#### For the Sauce:- 2 tbsp vegetable oil- 1 large onion, finely chopped- 2 cloves garlic, minced- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated- 1 tbsp tomato paste- 1 28-oz can of crushed tomatoes- 1 cup heavy cream- 1 tsp ground turmeric- 1 tsp ground cumin- 1 tsp ground coriander- 1 tsp ground garam masala- 1 tsp paprika- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)- Salt and pepper to taste- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

### 1. Marinate the Chicken: 1. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, grated ginger, and salt. 2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. 3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for best flavor.

### 2. Prepare the Sauce: 1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. 2. Add the chopped onions and cook until golden brown, about 8 minutes. 3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. 4. Add the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. 5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

### 3. Cook the Chicken: 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Place the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked. 4. Optionally, you can grill the chicken instead of baking it, for additional charred flavor.

### 4. Combine and Finish the Dish: 1. Add the baked (or grilled) chicken to the simmering sauce. 2. Stir in the heavy cream, ensuring everything is well combined. 3. Add the ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. 4. Let the mixture simmer for another 10 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.

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

Enjoy your Chicken Tikka Masala, a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the taste of India to your dining table!