Craving chicken tikka masala? master the recipe with our succulent chicken breast guide

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of India with our delectable chicken tikka masala recipe, featuring juicy chicken breasts marinated in aromatic spices and simmered in a creamy tomato sauce. This dish is a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Delhi.

Gather Your Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tikka Masala Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and stir until evenly coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Grilling the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess.
3. Grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred.

Preparing the Tikka Masala Sauce

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil.
2. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, and cardamom.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the grilled chicken to the tikka masala sauce and stir to combine.
2. Cook for 5 minutes more, or until the chicken is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish the chicken tikka masala with fresh cilantro and serve it with your favorite sides, such as basmati rice, naan bread, or roti.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become dry and tough.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the chicken in a skillet or in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
• Adjust the spices to your own taste. If you like it spicy, add more cayenne pepper.
• Let the tikka masala simmer for a while to allow the flavors to meld together.

Variations

• Vegetarian Tikka Masala: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or paneer cheese.
• Spicy Tikka Masala: Add more cayenne pepper or chopped chili peppers to the marinade and sauce.
• Butter Chicken Tikka Masala: Add 1/2 cup of unsalted butter to the sauce.
• Saag Tikka Masala: Add 1 cup of chopped spinach to the sauce.

Health Benefits

Chicken tikka masala is a relatively healthy dish, especially when served with whole-wheat rice or naan bread. It provides:

• Protein: Chicken breasts are a lean protein source.
• Vegetables: The onion, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes contain vitamins and minerals.
• Spices: Garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The Perfect Dish for Every Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this chicken tikka masala recipe with chicken breast is sure to impress. Its rich flavors and tender chicken will leave you and your guests wanting more.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight and cook the sauce up to 2 days in advance. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and add the grilled chicken.

Q: What if I don’t have garam masala?
A: You can make your own garam masala by combining 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, coriander, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes, you can use lamb, beef, or shrimp instead of chicken. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.