Unlock the secrets of easy chicken tikka masala with a jar sauce

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of India with our fuss-free chicken tikka masala recipe. This simplified version utilizes the convenience of jarred sauce, making it a breeze for home cooks to recreate the beloved dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 jar (15 ounces) tikka masala sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce: Pour the tikka masala sauce into the same skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until thickened.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken back to the sauce and stir to coat. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

5. Add Heavy Cream (Optional): For a richer sauce, stir in the heavy cream. Heat through for 2 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro. Serve hot with rice, naan bread, or your favorite side dish.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala

• Use high-quality jarred sauce: Look for a sauce that has a balanced blend of spices and a rich tomato base.
• Marinate the chicken overnight: This will allow the flavors to penetrate deep into the chicken.
• Brown the chicken before simmering: This will add depth of flavor.
• Adjust the spice level to your taste: Add more or less garam masala as desired.
• Serve with your favorite sides: Rice, naan bread, or a refreshing cucumber-onion salad are all excellent options.

Variations

• Vegetable Tikka Masala: Replace the chicken with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots.
• Spicy Tikka Masala: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped chili for a kick of heat.
• Creamy Tikka Masala: Stir in additional heavy cream or coconut milk for a velvety smooth sauce.

Health Benefits of Chicken Tikka Masala

While chicken tikka masala is often considered a comfort food, it can also offer some health benefits:

• Protein-rich: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Antioxidant-rich: The spices used in tikka masala, such as cumin and turmeric, have antioxidant properties that can protect against free radical damage.
• Heart-healthy: The tomatoes in the sauce are a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to improved heart health.

Wrapping Up

With this easy chicken tikka masala recipe with jar sauce, you can now enjoy this delectable dish in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe will guide you every step of the way. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let the flavors of India dance on your palate.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Thaw it completely before marinating.

Q: What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
A: Add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin out the sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, replace the chicken with tofu or your favorite vegetables.