Name: Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 600g (1.2lb) boneless, skinless chicken thigh, cut into 3cm (2.2″) cubes; 1/2 cup plain full-fat yoghurt (Greek yoghurt is fine); 6 cloves garlic, minced (~1.5 tbsp); 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika (sweet, normal, or smoky); 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Pinch of black pepper; 2 tsp lemon juice; 1 – 2 tbsp oil; 2 tsp turmeric; 1 tbsp garam masala; 2 tsp coriander; 1 tsp cumin; 1/8 tsp cardamom powder; 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper; 3 tbsp (65ml) vegetable oil; 30g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter or ghee; 1 onion, finely chopped (brown, white, or yellow); 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 6 cloves garlic, crushed or grated; 1 tbsp paprika (not smoked); 1 2/3 cups (400ml) tomato passata (tomato puree); 1 2/3 cups (400ml) water; 100 ml (1/3 cup + 1 tbsp) cream (thickened or pure)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 8 reviews

The moment you dive into this Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe, you’re greeted with an explosion of fragrant spices, creamy tomato-rich sauce, and tender chicken pieces that have soaked up every bit of flavor from their marinade. This dish has become a beloved classic for a reason — it brings the vibrant tastes of Indian cuisine right to your home kitchen in a way that’s both approachable and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe promises an unforgettable experience that tastes far better than any jarred sauce or restaurant takeout.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several pieces of grilled food with a charred texture, mostly dark brown and black with some orange tones underneath. The pieces vary in size and shape, scattered across a dark cooking surface that looks slightly shiny and oily. The texture of the food is rough and uneven, with some parts looking crispier and others softer, showing a mix of blackened and lighter burnt spots. The overall look is rustic and smoky. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe shines because of its straightforward, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the rich layers of flavor and comforting textures that make this dish so special. From the fragrant spices to the creamy touch of yogurt and cream, everything blends perfectly.

600g chicken thigh: Boneless and skinless, cut into 3cm cubes for perfect bite-sized pieces that soak up the marinade beautifully.
1/2 cup plain yoghurt: Full fat or Greek for tangy creaminess that tenderizes the chicken.
6 cloves garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds that punch of savoriness you expect in Indian cooking.
1 tbsp fresh ginger: Grated ginger brings a lively zest and warmth to both the marinade and sauce.
1 tsp garam masala: The essential Indian spice blend that injects deep aromatic notes.
Salt, cumin, ground coriander, paprika: Balanced in precise amounts, these spices layer the flavor and color.
Vegetable oil: Used in cooking and marinade for that perfect sear and smooth sauce base.
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper: Optional for a gentle kick without overwhelming heat.
2 tsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken further.
Onion: Finely chopped to melt into the curry’s base, lending subtle sweetness and texture.
Tomato passata: The luscious core of the sauce, bringing a fresh tomato flavor without seeds or chunks.
Cream: Thickened or pure cream for that luscious, velvety finish.
Butter or ghee: Adds richness and that irresistible silky mouthfeel to the sauce.
Basmati rice: A classic, fragrant side that soaks up the curry perfectly.

How to Make Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the yoghurt, garlic, ginger, spices, oil, lemon juice, and salt to create a rich marinade. Toss in the chicken pieces ensuring every cube is thoroughly coated. Marinate this in the fridge overnight for at least 3 hours — this slow infusion of flavors is the secret to tender, juicy chicken that carries the hallmark of an Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over high heat until almost smoking. Add half of the marinated chicken pieces spaced out so they sear and char beautifully. After about 2 minutes, turn each piece to get that signature charred exterior while keeping the inside tender. Repeat with the remaining chicken. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked at this stage — it will finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Curry Sauce

Wipe out the pan and turn the heat to medium-high. Melt butter or ghee with vegetable oil, then add finely chopped onions, grated ginger, and salt. Cook gently, stirring frequently until the onions caramelize slightly and the mixture smells irresistible, about 5-7 minutes.

Next, stir in crushed garlic and paprika, cooking for 2 minutes to release their flavors. Add your curry sauce spices and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the aromatic blend to bloom beautifully.

Pour in the tomato passata and water, then bring the sauce to a simmer. Cover and let it gently bubble for 15 minutes so all the spices meld together into a heavenly base.

Step 4: Blend and Enrich the Sauce

Transfer the sauce to a bowl and use a stick blender to puree until perfectly smooth. Return the sauce to the pan and stir in cream, sugar, and additional butter until the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy and glistening.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Finally, add the cooked chicken back into the sauce. Simmer for a few more minutes until the chicken is cooked through and every piece is enveloped in rich, fragrant gravy. If you like, a sprinkle of extra garam masala at the end will boost that classic flavor.

How to Serve Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

A close-up view of a pan filled with thick, rich orange sauce with charred pieces of meat or vegetables dipped inside. The sauce looks smooth and creamy with small green herb pieces sprinkled on top. A silver spoon with a wooden handle rests on the edge of the pan, partially dipped in the sauce. The pan is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate the dish beautifully; a handful of chopped coriander or cilantro adds a lovely herbal brightness, while a dollop of cream can provide an inviting swirl of richness on top.

Side Dishes

Serve this curry with fluffy basmati rice to soak up all the sauce, or warm naan bread to scoop up every last bite. You might also add a cooling cucumber raita or a simple salad to balance the spices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, present the curry in a rustic serving dish, lined with banana leaves or sprinkled with toasted cumin seeds for an added aroma. Individual ramekins make for chic plating, perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, often tasting even better the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save it for later, freeze the curry (without rice) in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw it gently in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture intact and fresh.

Reheating

Reheat the curry slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much during storage to bring back the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh?

Yes, but chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor. Breast meat can dry out more easily, so be sure not to overcook it and consider marinating longer to retain moisture.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The spice level is mild to moderate, making it perfect for most palates. You can adjust the cayenne pepper to add more heat if desired or omit it entirely for a gentler curry.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

You can swap chicken for paneer or tofu and replace cream and butter with coconut milk and vegan butter to create a delicious vegetarian or vegan version while maintaining the authentic flavors.

Why is marinating the chicken important?

Marinating not only infuses the chicken with spices but also tenderizes it, ensuring every bite is flavorful and succulent — a crucial step in an authentic chicken tikka masala.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Simply reheat it gently before adding the cooked chicken; this can even intensify the flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about making and sharing an Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe at home. It’s a dish that brings people together with its rich aroma and comforting flavors, and the best part is how easily you can create restaurant-quality curry in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your favorites to cook and share time and time again.