Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe – A Flavorful Journey Through Indian Cuisine

Introduction:

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved and iconic dish that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Originating from Indian cuisine, this flavorful dish features succulent chicken pieces marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, grilled to perfection, and then simmered in a rich and aromatic tomato-based curry. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to create an authentic Chicken Tikka Masala that will transport your taste buds on a culinary journey.

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Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup plain yogurt

2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste

1 tablespoon garam masala

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder

Salt to taste

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Chicken Tikka:

Skewers for grilling

Vegetable oil for brushing

For the Masala Sauce:

2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes

1 cup heavy cream

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Marinating the Chicken:

In a bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and vegetable oil to create the marinade.

Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor.

Grilling the Chicken Tikka:

Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.

Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.

Brush with vegetable oil and grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked and has a slightly charred exterior.

Preparing the Masala Sauce:

In a large pan, heat ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown.

Add ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Add grilled chicken tikka pieces to the sauce and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Stir in heavy cream and salt to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Finishing Touches:

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Chicken Tikka Masala pairs well with steamed basmati rice or naan bread.

Enjoy with a side of cucumber raita or mint chutney for a refreshing contrast.

Conclusion:

Embark on a culinary adventure with this Chicken Tikka Masala recipe, bringing the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine to your table. Whether you're hosting a special dinner or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.