Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; 7-ounce container plain Greek yogurt; 15-ounce can tomato sauce; 1.5 cups heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 4 teaspoons garam masala; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon table salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne

Published: June 21, 2025

by Sofia

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This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe brings the charm of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. The dish is renowned for its rich flavors and creamy texture, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. With tender chicken simmered in a luscious tikka masala sauce, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal that’s not only delicious but also low carb, keto, and gluten-free.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for novice cooks.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving with rice or naan, Chicken Tikka Masala adapts well to different sides.
Healthy Option: This recipe is low carb and gluten-free, making it suitable for those on specific diets.
Meal Prep Friendly: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Tikka Masala, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick pan
Large bowl
Measuring spoons
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick pan: Helps prevent the chicken from sticking while searing, making it easier to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Large bowl: Essential for mixing the marinade evenly with the chicken pieces before cooking.

Ingredients

For this delightful Chicken Tikka Masala recipe, gather the following ingredients:

Chicken and Marinade

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
7-ounce container plain greek yogurt
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Sauce Ingredients

15-ounce can tomato sauce
1.5 cups heavy whipping cream
5 cloves garlic, minced
4 teaspoons garam masala
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon table salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne

How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate Chicken

Stir together all marinade ingredients except chicken in a large bowl until well-mixed; set aside.
Pat chicken dry with paper towels and cut into bite-sized chunks (1/2 to 1 inch).
Stir chicken chunks into marinade until well-coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Sear Chicken

Heat a nonstick pan over high heat; no oil needed.
Add half of the marinated chicken chunks (along with any marinade sticking to them) to the pan and spread them out.
Cook until golden brown and slightly charred for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
Transfer seared chicken to a large plate and repeat with remaining chicken.

Step 3: Simmer Sauce

Reduce heat to medium.
Add all sauce ingredients to the now-empty pan; stir for one minute until mixed.
Add seared chicken chunks (without drippings) to the pan; no need to stir.
Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens slightly.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala! Serve it hot with your favorite sides like rice or naan for a complete meal.

How to Serve Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to keep it traditional or get creative, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Basmati Rice

Perfect Pairing: Serve your chicken tikka masala over fluffy basmati rice. The rice soaks up the rich sauce, creating a satisfying meal.

With Naan Bread

Delicious Dip: Use warm naan bread to scoop up the tikka masala. It adds a delightful texture and flavor, making for an authentic Indian experience.

With Raita

Cool Contrast: Serve with a side of raita — a yogurt-based condiment that cools down the spices and adds freshness, balancing the dish perfectly.

Over Cauliflower Rice

Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb alternative, serve chicken tikka masala over cauliflower rice. This keeps the meal healthy while still flavorful.

With Salad

Fresh Crunch: A light salad with crunchy cucumbers and tomatoes complements the richness of the chicken tikka masala beautifully, adding freshness to your plate.

With Pickles

Tangy Twist: Add Indian pickles on the side for an extra burst of flavor. They provide a tangy contrast that enhances each bite of the chicken tikka masala.

How to Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala

Creating the perfect Chicken Tikka Masala takes some attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour. The longer it sits, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.
Use Fresh Spices: Always opt for fresh garam masala and ground spices. Freshness makes a huge difference in flavor intensity.
Sear for Flavor: Ensure you sear the chicken until golden brown. This step creates a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Simmer Gently: When simmering, keep the heat low to avoid burning the sauce. A gentle simmer allows flavors to meld perfectly.
Adjust Creaminess: For a creamier sauce, feel free to add more heavy cream or yogurt during cooking until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tikka Masala

To complement your Chicken Tikka Masala, consider pairing it with these delicious side dishes. Each option brings its own unique flavors to enhance your meal.

Garlic Naan: Soft and buttery, garlic naan is perfect for scooping up sauce and adds aromatic flavor.
Basmati Rice: Classic choice; its fluffy texture is ideal for soaking in all those delicious spices from the curry.
Palak Paneer: This spinach and cheese dish provides a nutritious boost and pairs well with chicken tikka masala’s spices.
Chickpea Salad: A refreshing chickpea salad adds protein and crunch; toss with lemon juice for extra zing.
Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt dish balances out spices from the main course while adding creaminess.
Aloo Gobi: A spiced potato and cauliflower dish that offers additional flavors while keeping things vegetarian-friendly.
Mint Chutney: A zesty mint chutney adds bright freshness; serve as a dip alongside naan or veggies.
Vegetable Samosas: Crispy samosas stuffed with spiced potatoes make for delightful finger food before diving into your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Tikka Masala, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

Overcooking Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Monitor the cooking time closely and ensure it’s just cooked through.
Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate the chicken can result in less flavor. Allow at least one hour for marination, or longer if possible.
Using Low-Quality Spices: Using stale or low-quality spices will dull the flavors of your dish. Always opt for fresh, high-quality spices for the best taste.
Not Adjusting Spice Levels: Every palate is different; not adjusting spice levels can lead to an unbalanced dish. Taste and modify spices to match your preferences.
Ignoring Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the chicken well. Simmer until it reaches your desired thickness.
Rushing the Searing Process: Skipping proper searing can prevent that lovely charred flavor. Give enough time to achieve a good sear on each side.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the Chicken Tikka Masala to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Chicken Tikka Masala

Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Chicken Tikka Masala

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.
Stovetop: Pour into a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Tikka Masala.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and will add extra juiciness and flavor.

What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

Serve it with basmati rice, naan bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.

How spicy is Chicken Tikka Masala?

The spiciness can be adjusted based on personal preference by modifying cayenne and black pepper amounts.

Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after resting as flavors meld together. Store it properly in the fridge or freezer.

Is Chicken Tikka Masala healthy?

This recipe is lower in carbs and gluten-free, making it a healthier option compared to traditional recipes.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Tikka Masala is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. It’s perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests at a gathering. Try this easy recipe today!