Flavor-Packed Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Tender marinated chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce infused with Indian spices. A restaurant-style dish made easily at home in one pan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (active)
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp garam masala (divided)
1 tsp cumin (divided)
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp cayenne (optional)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 tbsp grated ginger (divided)
6 garlic cloves, minced (divided)
1.5 cups tomato puree
3/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
1 onion, diced
2 tbsp butter or oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Mix yogurt, lemon juice, half the spices, garlic, and ginger. Marinate chicken at least 1 hour.
- Broil or sear chicken until charred and cooked through. Set aside.
- In a pan, sauté onion in butter. Add remaining garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook 1 min.
- Stir in tomato puree. Simmer 10 minutes.
- Add cream, then chicken. Simmer 5–10 minutes more.
- Serve with rice or naan, topped with cilantro.
Notes
Marinate overnight for best flavor. Use coconut milk for dairy-free. Adjust spice level to taste.