Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe: A Flavorful Indian Classic You Can Make at Home
If there’s one dish that perfectly captures the rich and comforting flavors of Indian cuisine, it’s Chicken Tikka Masala. Known for its tender pieces of chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce, this dish has become a beloved favorite not just in India, but in kitchens around the world. Whether you’re craving something bold and aromatic or looking to impress dinner guests, this Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is your go-to. Let’s dive into how you can create this restaurant-style classic in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500 grams boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
For the Masala (Gravy):
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2-3 large tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 200 ml heavy cream (or fresh cream)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for richer color)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Salt to taste
Instructions: How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala
Start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and all the dry spices. Ensure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for the most flavor.
Once marinated, grill the chicken pieces on a hot grill, in an oven, or in a pan until they’re charred on the edges and cooked through. Set them aside while you prepare the masala.
To make the masala, heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a couple of minutes until fragrant.
Add the pureed tomatoes along with turmeric, coriander, cumin, and red chili powder. Cook this mixture until the oil separates from the masala and the tomatoes lose their raw flavor. You can add a tablespoon of tomato paste at this stage for a richer, deeper color.
Now, lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer gently, and season with salt and garam masala.
Finally, add the grilled chicken pieces into the creamy sauce and simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the flavors meld together beautifully. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve your delicious Chicken Tikka Masala hot with naan, steamed rice, or jeera rice.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala
- Marinate longer for better flavor: Overnight marination makes the chicken incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Adjust spice levels to suit your taste — you can make it mild or extra hot by tweaking the chili powder.
- Use fresh cream for a rich, velvety sauce, but coconut milk can be a great alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth to the dish, mimicking traditional tandoor flavors.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Tikka Masala is more than just a dish — it’s a celebration of spices, textures, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re an Indian food enthusiast or new to this cuisine, this recipe is sure to win your heart (and your taste buds). The balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy notes makes it a truly unforgettable meal. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family over a cozy dinner.