A creamy, spiced Indian curry featuring marinated grilled chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Description
Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most iconic Indian dishes loved worldwide. Tender pieces of marinated chicken are grilled to smoky perfection and then simmered in a velvety, aromatic tomato-cream sauce infused with traditional spices. It’s rich, comforting, and bursting with bold flavors — perfect when served with basmati rice or warm naan bread.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
For the Masala Sauce
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken:
juice, 1 teaspoon of garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for best flavor).
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Sear the Chicken (Sautéing):
Heat 1/2 tablespoon of the olive oil/ghee in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces (shake off excess marinade) and cook in a single layer for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned and seared. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
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Build the Sauce Base:
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil/ghee to the skillet. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
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Toast Spices:
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, remaining 2 teaspoons of garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are very fragrant.
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Simmer the Curry:
Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the sauce bubble gently, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavor deepens
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Combine and Finish:
Return the seared chicken and any accumulated juices back into the skillet. Stir in the light cream (or extra Greek yogurt). Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is hot and bubbly
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Serve:
Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice if necessary. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with brown rice or cauliflower rice
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14g22%
- Saturated Fat 3g15%
- Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 55g111%
- Iron 3 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
This recipe skips the traditional high-fat additions like heavy cream and large amounts of butter/ghee, relying on nonfat Greek yogurt for tenderness and protein, and only a touch of cream for texture. For maximum flavor, do not skip the 30-minute marination time!
