Name: Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 28 oz boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, crushed or minced; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili or 1/2 teaspoon ground red chili powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or canola oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 small onions or 1 large onion, finely diced; 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic, finely grated; 1 tablespoon ginger, finely grated; 1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 14 ounces tomato puree, tomato sauce, or passata; 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili, optional for color and flavor; 1 teaspoon red chili powder, adjust to taste; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 1/4 cups heavy or thickened cream (use evaporated milk for a lower-calorie option); 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1/4 cup water, if needed; 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (coriander), to garnish

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If you are looking for a soul-warming, rich, and creamy dish that bursts with flavor, this Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Imagine tender chicken thighs marinated in yogurt and a blend of spices, then simmered in a luscious tomato and cream sauce that’s perfectly spiced. It’s a dish that has become a beloved classic around the world, and making it at home is both rewarding and surprisingly simple. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe promises to fill your kitchen with inviting aromas and your table with smiles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with many pieces of light pink meat covered in a thick creamy sauce that is pale orange with some darker orange specks and streaks spread unevenly across the surface and sides inside the bowl. The meat pieces vary in size and shape, appearing soft and moist under the sauce, sitting on a smooth white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from the aromatic spices that create depth and warmth, to the creamy dairy that gives the sauce its silky texture and balanced richness.

28 oz boneless chicken thighs skinless: Using chicken thighs ensures juicy, tender bites that hold up beautifully in the sauce.
1 cup plain yogurt: This acts as a tenderizing marinade base while adding a subtle tanginess.
1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic: Fresh garlic gives an unmistakable punch and savoriness.
1 tablespoon fresh crushed ginger: Ginger adds zest and a bit of warmth without overpowering.
2 teaspoons garam masala: A blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves that defines the dish’s signature aroma.
1 teaspoon turmeric: Brings vibrant color and a gentle earthy note.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds depth and a slightly nutty flavor essential in Indian cooking.
1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili or 1/2 teaspoon ground red chili powder: For a mild heat and lovely color, you can adjust this to your spice tolerance.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the spices and ingredients perfectly.
2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil: Neutral oils that help with frying without altering the flavors.
2 tablespoons butter: Provides richness and a silky finish to the sauce.
2 small or 1 large finely diced onions: Onions caramelize down to add sweetness and body.
1 1/2 tablespoons finely grated garlic: More garlic for the sauce base intensifies flavor.
1 tablespoon finely grated ginger: Continues the ginger warmth for the sauce.
1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala: Additional layers of that essential spice blend in the sauce.
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin: Reinforces the rich, nutty undertone.
1 teaspoon turmeric powder: Keeps the sauce bright and warm.
1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a fresh, citrusy note to balance the other spices.
14 ounces tomato puree (tomato sauce/Passata): The luscious tomato base that enriches the sauce’s texture and tang.
1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili (optional): Boosts both color and aromatic heat.
1 teaspoon red chili powder: For adjustable heat – perfect if you like a little kick.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances each flavor element.
1 1/4 cups heavy or thickened cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth; evaporated milk works as a lighter alternative.
1 teaspoon brown sugar: Balances acidity from the tomatoes with just a hint of sweetness.
1/4 cup water (if needed): To adjust sauce thickness to your liking.
4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (coriander): Adds a fresh herbal finish as a garnish.

How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken thighs with yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. This marinade is a flavor powerhouse that tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with intense spice notes. Letting it rest for at least 10 minutes, or ideally longer, gives the spices time to soak in and the chicken to soften up beautifully.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat your oil until sizzling and carefully add the chicken in small batches. Frying in batches is key to getting a nice sear without steaming your chicken. Each piece gets a crispy, golden exterior in just a few minutes per side. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked at this point—we’ll finish it in the sauce where it’ll become melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Using the same pan, melt the butter and cook the onions until soft and translucent. The onions create a sweet, flavorful base that supports all the spices. Scrape up the tasty browned bits stuck to the pan for an extra flavor boost. Add freshly grated garlic and ginger, cooking just until fragrant to keep their brightness fresh.

Step 4: Spice it Up

Now it’s time to really bring the flavors forward. Stir in the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and coriander, letting them toast lightly for about 20 seconds. This step unlocks the spices’ full aroma and complexity, setting the stage for a truly vibrant sauce.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Pour in the tomato puree along with chili powders and salt. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and deepen into a rich red-brown color. This slow simmer creates a robust, tangy tomato foundation that beautifully balances the creamy finale.

Step 6: Finish with Cream and Chicken

Stir in the cream and brown sugar for a smooth, luscious texture. Return the browned chicken pieces and any accumulated juices back to the sauce. Simmer for another 8 to 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the sauce is thick and bubbling with flavor. Add a splash of water if the sauce feels too thick—this lets you customize the consistency to your liking.

How to Serve Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

A close-up of a round white bowl filled with thick orange curry sauce covering many pieces of cooked chicken chunks, with a smooth and creamy texture visible in the sauce. Bright green chopped cilantro leaves are scattered on top, adding color contrast. A metal spoon is partially dipped inside the curry on the right side. The background is a white marbled surface with a few cilantro leaves outside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves on top brings a bright, herbal contrast that balances the creaminess and spices. Consider a squeeze of fresh lemon if you like a subtle zing to brighten the dish even more.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe pairs perfectly with fluffy garlic butter rice or fragrant basmati. Homemade naan bread is an absolute must—it’s ideal for scooping up every bit of the luscious sauce, making each bite truly unforgettable.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken and sauce over roasted vegetables or even stuffed into warm pita pockets with cucumber raita on the side. If you’re hosting, offer a platter of accompaniments like sliced onions, fresh herbs, and pickled chutneys so everyone can customize their plates with little bursts of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen and become even more delicious after resting overnight, so it’s great for meal prepping or enjoying next-day leftovers.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked dish for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and leave some space for expansion. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Gently reheat the sauce and chicken on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling the cream. Stir often and add a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken and change the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

You can absolutely use chicken breast if you prefer, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender after cooking. If using breast, be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the yogurt with a coconut yogurt or dairy-free alternative and swap cream for a plant-based cream like coconut milk or cashew cream to keep that rich texture without dairy.

How spicy is this Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe?

The spice level is moderate and adaptable. The Kashmiri chili offers color and mild heat; you can reduce or omit the chili powders to make it milder or increase for more kick.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Definitely! Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavors and tenderness even more, making this recipe very flexible for planning ahead.

What kind of rice pairs best with Chicken Tikka Masala?

Basmati rice is the classic choice because of its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. Garlic butter rice or even plain steamed rice both work beautifully to soak up the sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comfort and vibrant flavors of this Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe to bring warmth and joy to your dinner table. It’s a recipe that invites you to savor every bite, shares stories through spices, and gathers loved ones around hearty, delicious food. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and enjoy the wonderful experience of home-cooked Indian cuisine!