Taste the culinary symphony: chicken tikka masala recipe infused with aromatic ghee

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of India with this delectable chicken tikka masala recipe, where succulent chicken morsels are marinated in aromatic spices and cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce enriched with the golden goodness of ghee.

Ingredients for the Chicken Tikka Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ingredients for the Chicken Tikka Masala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons ghee
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Grill or Pan-Fry the Chicken:

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers and grill for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.

3. Prepare the Masala Sauce:

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.

4. Add the Tomatoes and Cream:

Add the diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and the sauce has thickened. Stir in the heavy cream and water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Add the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the skewers and add it to the sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Garnish the chicken tikka masala with fresh cilantro and serve with basmati rice or naan bread.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala:

• Use high-quality ghee for the best flavor and aroma.
• Marinate the chicken for as long as possible to allow the flavors to penetrate.
• Grill or pan-fry the chicken until slightly charred for an extra layer of flavor.
• Adjust the amount of red chili powder to your desired level of spiciness.
• Serve the chicken tikka masala immediately for the best taste and texture.

Variations:

• Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the sauce for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
• Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a vegan option.
• Sprinkle the chicken tikka masala with crushed cashews or almonds for a crunchy topping.

Key Points:

This chicken tikka masala recipe with ghee is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. With its rich and flavorful sauce, succulent chicken, and aromatic spices, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and embark on a culinary adventure that will transport you to the vibrant streets of India.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use olive oil instead of ghee?
A: While olive oil can be used as a substitute, it will not provide the same rich flavor and aroma as ghee.

Q: What can I do if I don’t have a grill?
A: You can pan-fry the chicken in a large skillet over medium heat.

Q: How long can I store the chicken tikka masala in the refrigerator?
A: The chicken tikka masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken tikka masala?
A: Yes, the chicken tikka masala can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken tikka masala?
A: Basmati rice, naan bread, or roti are all excellent options.