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Chicken Tikka Masala

  • Author: Nina Johnson
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Dinner

Description

A creamy, spiced tomato-based curry that features tender chunks of marinated chicken simmered in a rich and aromatic sauce. Perfect with basmati rice or naan for a comforting, flavorful meal.


Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks

1 cup Greek yogurt

1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tsp garam masala (plus more for sauce)

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

Salt, to taste

2 tbsp vegetable oil

2 tbsp butter

1 medium onion, chopped

1.5 cups tomato puree

1 cup heavy cream

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Pinch of sugar (optional)


Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, paprika, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  2. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high. Sear the chicken pieces until browned and almost cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, melt butter. Add onions and sauté until golden. Stir in garlic, ginger, and remaining spices. Cook until fragrant.
  4. Add tomato puree and cook for 10 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and a pinch of sugar.
  5. Reduce heat. Stir in cream and simmer until the sauce is smooth and rich.
  6. Return chicken to the pan and simmer 10 more minutes until fully cooked.
  7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.