✨ Introduction of Chicken Tikka Masala
One of the most popular Pakistani-British fusion foods worldwide is chicken tikka masala. It consists of pan-seared or grilled chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, which is then cooked in a tomato curry that is rich, creamy, and spicy. While it’s a restaurant staple, you can easily recreate this comfort classic at home with even better flavor.
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Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Marination | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty | Spice Level |
| 20 mins | 30 mins | 1–2 hrs | 2 hrs | 4–6 | Moderate | Medium–Hot |
Ingredients of Chicken Tikka Masala
🔹 For Chicken Marinade:
* 500g boneless chicken thighs (cut into cubes)
* ½ cup plain yogurt
* 1 tbsp lemon juice
* 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
* 1 tsp turmeric
* 1 tsp red chili powder
* 1 tsp garam masala
* Salt to taste
🔸 For the Masala Sauce:
* 2 tbsp oil or ghee
* 1 tbsp butter
* 1 onion, finely chopped
* 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
* 2 tomatoes
* 1 tsp coriander powder
* 1 tsp cumin powder
* 1 tsp red chili powder
* ½ tsp turmeric
* 1 tsp garam masala
* ½ cup heavy cream
* Salt to taste
* Fresh coriander (for garnish)
Instructions of Chicken Tikka Masala
🔹 1. Marinate the Chicken
* In a bowl, mix chicken with all marinade ingredients.
* Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
🔹 2. Cook the Chicken
* Option A: Grill the marinated chicken on skewers until charred and cooked through.
* Option B: Pan-fry the chicken pieces in 1 tbsp oil on high heat until seared on both sides and cooked. Set aside.
🔹 3. Make the Masala
* In a pan, heat oil + butter.
* Chopped onions should be sautéed until golden brown.
* Cook for one to two minutes after adding the ginger-garlic paste.
* Stir in cumin powder, turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and pureed tomatoes.
* Cook until the oil separates and the masala thickens (about 10–15 mins).
🔹 4. Simmer the Tikka
* Add grilled chicken to the masala and stir to coat.
* Add cream and garam masala. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
* Adjust salt and spices.
🔹 5. Garnish & Serve
* Top with chopped coriander.
* Optional: swirl in extra cream before serving.
Serving Suggestions
* Serve warm alongside naan, roti, or fluffy basmati rice
* Goes well with cucumber raita, onion salad, or lemon wedges.
📊 Nutritional Info (Per Serving: Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 350–450 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Carbs | 10g |
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe brings restaurant magic right to your home kitchen. The marinated, charred chicken combined with the luxuriously creamy, spicy tomato curry creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive. It’s perfect for weeknights, dinner parties, or whenever you’re craving something bold and delicious.
