Chicken tikka masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved Indian dish that has gained immense popularity around the world. It features tender chicken pieces marinated in aromatic spices, grilled to perfection, and then simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce. This delectable combination of flavors makes Chicken Tikka Masala a true crowd-pleaser. In this article, we will explore the essence of Chicken Tikka Masala, its key characteristics, and provide you with a classic recipe to recreate this mouthwatering dish at home.

Key Characteristics of Chicken Tikka Masala: Chicken Tikka Masala is known for its rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce that beautifully coats the succulent pieces of chicken. The marinade for the chicken typically consists of yogurt and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, ginger, and garlic. The chicken is traditionally grilled in a tandoor, but can also be cooked on a stovetop grill or baked in an oven. The sauce is made with tomatoes, onions, cream, and a medley of spices including garam masala, fenugreek leaves, and chili powder. The result is a luscious and aromatic dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or naan bread.

Classic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe:

Ingredients for Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Ingredients for the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric powder, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If using a grill, lightly oil the grates. If using an oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and grill them for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and slightly charred. If baking in the oven, arrange the chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
5. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
6. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
7. Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, chili powder, and dried fenugreek leaves. Cook for a minute to toast the spices and release their flavors.
8. Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt to taste. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
10. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers and add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce. Gently stir to coat the chicken with the sauce.
11. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread.