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Chicken Tikka Masala

A rich and flavorful dish combining tender chicken with a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, paprika, cumin, and salt. Add the diced chicken and coat well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches, cooking until golden brown and fully cooked—about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add garam masala, paprika, and salt. Cook for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
  5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir in the cream (or coconut milk). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve warm over rice or with naan bread.

Notes

Allowing the chicken to marinate longer enhances flavor and tenderness. For a milder dish, reduce paprika and garam masala.