Introduction
Craving a restaurant-style Chicken Tikka Masala that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor? This beloved Indian dish combines grilled marinated chicken chunks with a spiced, silky tomato-based sauce. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or just looking to try something new, this homemade Chicken Tikka Masala recipe will satisfy your taste buds and impress your family.
Table of Contents
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Marination Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Ingredients
For Chicken Marinade:
500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into cubes
½ cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste
2 tbsp oil - For the Masala Sauce:
2 tbsp butter or oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
2 medium tomatoes, pureed
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp paprika or chili powder
1 tsp garam masala
½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala - Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, spices, and salt. Add chicken cubes and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (for best results, marinate for 2–3 hours). - Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Grill, pan-fry, or bake the marinated chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside. - Step 3: Prepare the Masala Sauce
Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until aromatic. Stir in tomato puree and cook for 5–7 minutes, until the oil starts to separate. - Step 4: Add Spices and Cream
Add cumin, coriander, chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well. Pour in the cream or coconut milk, then simmer for 5–10 minutes until the sauce thickens. - Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. - Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala
For smoky flavor, grill the chicken over charcoal or use a grill pan.
Marinating longer makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
Adjust spice level based on your heat preference. - Serving Suggestion
Pair your Chicken Tikka Masala with buttery naan and mint chutney for an authentic Indian dining experience at home.
Final Thoughts
This easy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its creamy, spiced sauce and tender chicken, it’s no wonder this dish is loved worldwide.
