Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe: A Hearty Taste of India

Chicken Tikka Masala, a celebrated and iconic Indian dish, is a flavorful masterpiece that has won the hearts of food lovers around the world. This creamy and aromatic curry is known for its tender chicken pieces marinated in a rich tomato-based sauce. In this blog article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the exquisite flavors of India and provide you with an irresistible Chicken Tikka Masala recipe that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen.

The Origin of Chicken Tikka Masala

The origins of Chicken Tikka Masala are the subject of much debate and mystery. Some say it was invented in India, while others claim it has British roots. Regardless of its exact origin, this dish has become a symbol of the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine, blending the techniques of traditional tandoori cooking with the comforting appeal of a creamy tomato sauce.

Ingredients for Chicken Tikka Masala

Before we get into the recipe, let’s gather the essential ingredients required to make this delightful dish:

For Chicken Marinade:

• 500g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste

For Tomato-Based Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for color)
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Additional Ingredients:

• Butter or ghee for cooking
• Lemon wedges

Cooking Instructions

For Chicken Marinade:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

For Cooking:

1. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and grill or broil until they’re cooked through and have a nice char.
3. In a large pan, heat oil and a tablespoon of butter or ghee. Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a few minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
5. Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for a few minutes.
6. Add the crushed tomatoes and simmer until the sauce thickens and the oil separates from the mixture.
7. Stir in heavy cream and continue cooking for a few minutes.
8. Add the grilled chicken pieces and simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with lemon wedges.

Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish that beautifully encapsulates the rich, diverse, and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine. With this recipe, you can embark on a culinary journey into the heart of India from the comfort of your own kitchen. The marriage of tender, spiced chicken and a creamy tomato sauce is a feast for the senses. Whether you savor it at an Indian restaurant or create it at home, Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish that unites people worldwide in their love for authentic, soul-warming food. Share this flavorful masterpiece with friends and family, and let the tastes of India linger on your palate.

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