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Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe for Cozy Nights Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 120 reviews

This easy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe features tender, marinated chicken thighs cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce with fragrant spices, perfect for cozy dinner nights. Served with basmati rice and naan, it’s a comforting Indian-inspired meal that comes together in under an hour.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (120g)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter (42g), divided
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400g) tomato puree
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream (180ml)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (a handful, chopped) for garnish

To Serve

  • Cooked basmati rice
  • Store-bought or homemade naan

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic paste, ginger paste, garam masala, ground cumin, and salt. Add the bite-sized chicken thighs and toss well to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for about 4 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned but not completely cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and golden. Add the garlic paste and ginger paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add Spices and Tomato Puree: Sprinkle garam masala, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and optional chili powder into the pan. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spices. Pour in the tomato puree, stir well, and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
  6. Finish with Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through. Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
  7. Serve: Garnish the Chicken Tikka Masala with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot over cooked basmati rice alongside warm naan bread for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness but is optional.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili powder or add fresh green chilies.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop to avoid curdling the cream.

Keywords: Chicken Tikka Masala, Indian curry, easy dinner recipe, creamy chicken curry, Indian spices, homemade tikka masala

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/easy-chicken-tikka-masala-recipe-for-cozy-nights-recipe/