Description: Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish featuring marinated chicken pieces grilled or baked until tender and then simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. The dish is renowned for its flavorful, aromatic sauce made from a blend of spices, tomatoes, and cream, offering a perfect balance of tanginess and richness. It’s often enjoyed with naan or rice, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.
History: Chicken Tikka Masala is a relatively modern dish that combines traditional Indian flavors with British influences. While chicken tikka itself is a traditional Indian dish, the idea of serving it with a creamy tomato sauce was likely developed by South Asian chefs in the UK. The dish became popular in the 1960s and 1970s and is often cited as an example of “Anglo-Indian” cuisine. Its widespread popularity in the UK and other parts of the world has cemented its status as a staple in Indian cuisine.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus 1 hour marination time)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a grill, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill or bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. If grilling, turn the chicken occasionally for even cooking.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat the oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, to toast the spices.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and sugar if needed.
Combine and Serve:
- Add the grilled or baked chicken pieces to the sauce and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot with naan bread, rice, or both.
Final Thoughts: Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish that beautifully marries the traditional spices of Indian cuisine with a creamy, comforting sauce that has broad appeal. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a favorite at both home dinners and restaurant menus around the world. This dish is not only a testament to the adaptability of Indian cuisine but also a beloved example of how culinary traditions can evolve and find new audiences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Indian flavors, Chicken Tikka Masala offers a delicious experience that’s sure to impress.