Taste of india in your own kitchen: easy chicken tikka masala recipe for australians

Embark on a tantalizing culinary adventure with this authentic chicken tikka masala recipe, a beloved dish that combines the vibrant flavors of India with the convenience of Australian ingredients. This mouthwatering dish will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Delhi and leave you craving for more.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 kg boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Tikka Sauce:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• 1 can (400ml) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with all the marinade ingredients.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Grilling the Chicken

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Making the Tikka Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, heat a little oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add the garlic and ginger and sauté for another minute.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the coconut milk, diced tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using).
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the grilled chicken to the tikka sauce and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
2. Stir in the heavy cream (if using) for a richer flavor.

Serving

1. Serve the chicken tikka masala hot over basmati rice or naan bread.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Variations

• Spicier: Add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce.
• Creamier: Use more heavy cream for a richer, more indulgent sauce.
• Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or tofu.
• Vegan: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omit the yogurt from the marinade.

Tips

• For a more authentic flavor, use homemade yogurt and garam masala.
• Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Serve the chicken tikka masala with a side of raita (Indian yogurt dip) or chutney for added freshness and flavor.

Health Benefits

• Chicken tikka masala is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing body tissues.
• The coconut milk provides healthy fats, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
• The spices used in the dish, such as turmeric and cumin, have anti-inflammatory properties.

Final Note

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of India with this authentic chicken tikka masala recipe, a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the heart of the subcontinent. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will impress your family and friends with its authentic flavors.

What People Want to Know

Q: What is the best way to marinate the chicken?
A: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Q: Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese), tofu, or even lamb or beef.

Q: How can I make the sauce spicier?
A: Add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce to your desired level of spiciness.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken tikka masala?
A: Basmati rice, naan bread, raita (Indian yogurt dip), or chutney are all great options to complement the flavors of the dish.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken tikka masala?
A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken tikka masala for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.