Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular dish originating from Indian cuisine, though its exact origins are sometimes debated, with claims of it being created in the UK. The dish consists of marinated, grilled or pan-seared chicken pieces (chicken tikka) that are cooked in a flavorful, spiced tomato-based sauce.

Key Elements of Chicken Tikka Masala:

1. Chicken Tikka: The word “tikka” refers to marinated meat that is typically grilled or cooked in a tandoor (a clay oven). In this dish, chicken pieces are marinated in yogurt and spices like garam masala, turmeric, and cumin, then grilled or pan-fried until slightly charred.

2. Masala Sauce: The sauce, or “masala,” is made from a combination of tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices such as garam masala, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. Cream (or sometimes coconut milk) is added toward the end of cooking to give the sauce a rich, smooth texture.

Flavor Profile:

• The dish is mildly spicy, with layers of flavor from the marinated chicken and the complex spice mixture in the sauce.

• It combines tanginess from the tomatoes, richness from the cream, and a smoky flavor from the grilled chicken.

How It’s Served:

Chicken Tikka Masala is commonly served with naan (Indian flatbread), basmati rice, or roti. It’s a favorite in Indian restaurants and widely loved for its vibrant, creamy sauce and tender, flavorful chicken.

Despite its Indian roots, Chicken Tikka Masala has become a global dish, especially popular in the UK, where it is considered one of the nation’s favorite curries and here’s how you make it!

INGREDIENTS

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup yogurt

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)

• Salt, to taste

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for grilling or pan-searing)

For the Masala Sauce:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste

• 2 large tomatoes, pureed (or 1 cup canned tomato puree)

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Salt, to taste

HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE IT!

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.

2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results).

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Preheat a grill or stovetop pan to medium-high heat.

2. Skewer the marinated chicken pieces (if grilling), or simply place them directly onto the hot pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has some charred marks.

3. Remove the chicken from heat and set aside.

Preparing the Masala Sauce:

1. Heat the oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.

2. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 7-10 minutes.

3. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add the tomato puree, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and red chili powder. Cook this mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil starts to separate from the masala.

5. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and simmer for 5 more minutes. Adjust the salt and spice levels if necessary.

6. Add the grilled chicken pieces into the sauce, stirring to coat them well. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken absorbs some of the flavors from the sauce.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish the Chicken Tikka Masala with chopped cilantro.

2. Serve hot with naan, basmati rice, or roti.

Enjoy your flavorful and rich Chicken Tikka Masala!