Spice up your weeknights: healthy and delicious chicken tikka masala air fryer recipe

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of India with our delectable air fryer chicken tikka masala recipe. This culinary masterpiece combines juicy chicken tikka with a rich and aromatic masala sauce, creating a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt

For the Masala Sauce:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the marinated chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
3. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and set aside.

Making the Masala Sauce:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, heavy cream, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the masala sauce. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite sides, such as basmati rice or naan bread.

Serving Suggestions:

• Basmati rice
• Naan bread
• Raita
• Mango chutney
• Papadum

Health Benefits of Chicken Tikka Masala:

• Rich in protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Contains antioxidants: Spices like turmeric and cumin have antioxidant properties that help protect the body from damage.
• Can be part of a balanced diet: When prepared with lean chicken and healthy sides, chicken tikka masala can fit into a balanced diet.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tikka Masala:

• Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a tender and juicy result.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, or the chicken will not cook evenly.
• Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, you can grill or pan-fry the chicken instead.
• Adjust the spice levels to your preference by adding more or less chili powder.

Final Thoughts:

Our air fryer chicken tikka masala recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines the vibrant flavors of India with the convenience of modern kitchen appliances. With its tender chicken, rich masala sauce, and endless serving possibilities, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, and embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may be slightly drier than thighs.

2. What can I do if I don’t have coconut milk?

You can substitute unsweetened almond milk or cashew milk.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce and combine them.

4. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu.

5. What are some other side dishes that go well with chicken tikka masala?

Vegetable biryani, samosas, or pakoras.