Chicken Tikka Masala

If you’re a fan of delicious Indian cuisine, then you’re in for a treat with this mouthwatering recipe for homemade chicken tikka masala. This creamy and flavorful dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving for more. From the aromatic spices to the tender chicken, there are so many reasons to love chicken tikka masala.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure and experience the delights of homemade Indian cuisine, then let’s dive into the world of chicken tikka masala. Prepare yourself for a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the streets of India.

Ingredient List & Possible Substitutions

In order to make a delicious chicken tikka masala, there are several essential ingredients you’ll need. These include boneless and skinless chicken thighs, plain yogurt, minced garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, Kashmiri chili, salt, vegetable or canola oil, butter, onions, tomato puree, ground red chili powder, heavy or thickened cream, brown sugar, and fresh cilantro or coriander for garnish.

If you prefer chicken breasts over thighs, they can be substituted in the recipe. It is recommended to marinate the chicken breasts overnight for better results and to ensure they stay tender and flavorful.

If you can’t find Kashmiri chili, don’t worry! You can use any ground red chili powder or cayenne powder as a substitute. Just adjust the amount to suit your desired level of heat.

For vegetarians or those looking for alternatives to chicken, paneer or tofu can be substituted. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through and well-incorporated into the dish.

The sauce for chicken tikka masala can be blended and strained for a smoother texture, but it’s not necessary. The flavors of the spices and ingredients will still be intense and delicious even without blending.

If you prefer a lighter version of the dish, you can use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. This will reduce the overall richness of the sauce without compromising the flavor.

Remember, while these substitutions can be made, they may slightly alter the taste and texture of the final dish. Feel free to experiment and customize the recipe to your preference!

How To Make Chicken Tikka Masala

Here are the step-by-step instructions to make homemade chicken tikka masala, an authentic Indian recipe:

1. In a bowl, mix the chicken with the ingredients for the marinade, including yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, Kashmiri chili, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes or overnight for chicken breasts.
2. Heat oil in a skillet or pot and cook the chicken pieces in batches until browned on all sides. Set aside.
3. Melt butter in the same pan and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, ginger, garam masala, ground cumin, turmeric, and ground coriander. Cook for a short time until fragrant.
4. Pour in the tomato puree, chili powders, and salt. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and turns a deep brown red color.
5. Stir in the cream and brown sugar. Add the cooked chicken and its juices back into the pan. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thick and bubbling.
6. If needed, you can add water to thin out the sauce.

Garnish with fresh cilantro or coriander and serve your homemade chicken tikka masala with steamed basmati rice or your favorite Indian bread, such as naan or roti. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the taste of authentic Indian cuisine to your kitchen!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving chicken tikka masala, there are a variety of options that perfectly complement this flavorful and indulgent dish. The classic accompaniments include hot and fragrant basmati rice, garlic butter rice, and homemade naan bread or other types of flatbread. These side dishes help to soak up the delicious sauce and enhance each bite of tender chicken. If you’re looking to add some variety, you can also serve the tikka masala with cumin rice or any type of flavored rice.

In addition to rice and bread, there are other popular side dishes that pair well with chicken tikka masala. Raita, a cool and refreshing yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and spices, adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Crispy pappadums, thin bread made from lentil or chickpea flour, provide a delightful texture. The tangy and spicy flavors of pickles can also complement the creamy and aromatic tikka masala sauce.

If you want to create a complete Indian meal experience, consider adding additional dishes to your menu. Saag paneer, a creamy spinach and cheese curry, adds a vegetarian option that pairs exceptionally well with chicken tikka masala. The earthy and comforting flavors of dal, a flavorful lentil curry, can also be a great addition. For a satisfying vegetable dish, try aloo gobi, which combines potatoes and cauliflower in a fragrant curry.

Lastly, don’t forget to garnish your chicken tikka masala with fresh cilantro or coriander. This simple addition enhances the visual appeal of the dish and provides a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors. So the next time you make chicken tikka masala, consider these serving suggestions to create a memorable and authentic Indian dining experience.

FAQ

What is chicken tikka masala?

Chicken tikka masala is a beloved Indian dish that has gained popularity in American cuisine. It is a creamy and flavorful dish made with tender chicken in a rich and aromatic sauce.

Why should I make chicken tikka masala at home?

Making chicken tikka masala at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. It’s a satisfying and indulgent meal that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own kitchen.

What are the key ingredients for chicken tikka masala?

The key ingredients for chicken tikka masala include boneless and skinless chicken thighs, plain yogurt, minced garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, Kashmiri chili, salt, vegetable or canola oil, butter, onions, tomato puree, ground red chili powder, heavy or thickened cream, brown sugar, and fresh cilantro or coriander for garnish.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs in chicken tikka masala. However, marinating them overnight is recommended for better results.

What can I substitute for Kashmiri chili?

If you can’t find Kashmiri chili, you can use any ground red chili powder or cayenne powder as a substitute. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.

Do I need to blend and strain the sauce?

Blending and straining the sauce is not necessary, but it can create a smoother texture. The flavors of the sauce can still be intense and delicious without blending.

Can I make a vegetarian version of chicken tikka masala?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of chicken tikka masala by substituting the chicken with paneer or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a lighter version of chicken tikka masala?

Yes, you can use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of chicken tikka masala.

What are some popular side dishes to serve with chicken tikka masala?

The best accompaniments for chicken tikka masala include hot and fresh basmati rice, garlic butter rice, and homemade naan bread or other types of flatbread. You can also serve it with cumin rice or any type of flavored rice for added variety. Other popular side dishes include raita (yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and spices), pappadums (crispy thin bread made from lentil or chickpea flour), and pickles.

What other Indian dishes can I serve with chicken tikka masala?

For a complete Indian meal, consider adding dishes like saag paneer (spinach and cheese curry), dal (lentil curry), or aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower curry) to complement the rich flavors of chicken tikka masala.

How do I garnish chicken tikka masala?

Garnish chicken tikka masala with fresh cilantro or coriander to add a burst of freshness and color.