Craving the rich flavors of Indian cuisine but want to keep it healthy? Look no further! This homemade Chicken Tikka Masala recipe brings the warmth and spice of your favorite restaurant dish right to your kitchen, and it's easier than you might think.
The Magic of Masala
The key to a truly amazing Tikka Masala is the masala paste. This aromatic blend of onions, garlic, ginger, and spices creates the flavor base of the sauce. While you can find pre-made pastes, making your own is surprisingly easy and lets you control the spice levels. Plus, you can make a big batch and freeze it for future meals.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking and use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Healthy-ish: Made with wholesome ingredients, and you can control the amount of cream or use a lighter alternative.
- Make Ahead: The masala paste can be made in advance and stored in the freezer for easy meal prep.
Ingredients You'll Need
- For the Masala Paste:
- 2 onions
- 5 cloves garlic
- 2-inch piece of fresh ginger
- 3 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon each of chili powder, turmeric, and cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Cilantro stems
- Juice of one lemon
- For the Tikka Masala:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup masala paste (from above)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1-2 tablespoons oil
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1-2 teaspoons salt
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Masala Paste: Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside 1/4 cup for this recipe and freeze the rest.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix with the yogurt and 1-2 tablespoons of the masala paste. Marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet. Cook the chicken in batches until nicely browned on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Create the Sauce: Add 2-3 tablespoons of the masala paste to the same skillet. Stir fry for a few minutes. Add the tomato puree and the browned chicken. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the cream or coconut milk. Season with salt. Let it stand for a few minutes to thicken. Serve over rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Tips for Success
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper to the masala paste.
- Dairy-Free: Coconut milk makes a great substitute for heavy cream, for a delicious dairy-free option.
- Vegetarian: Use tofu or paneer instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
- Make Ahead: The chicken can be marinated overnight and the masala paste can be made well in advance.
Enjoy!
This homemade Chicken Tikka Masala is not just a recipe, it's an invitation to explore the rich flavors of Indian cooking in your own kitchen. It's a healthy, flavorful, and customizable dish that the whole family will love. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a taste of restaurant-quality Tikka Masala without leaving your home! Happy cooking!