Curry up your weeknights: effortless chicken tikka masala recipe simple for busy home cooks

Embark on a culinary adventure with our simplified chicken tikka masala recipe, a delectable dish that will tantalize your taste buds with its vibrant flavors. This easy-to-follow guide will guide you through every step, ensuring a flavorful and aromatic masterpiece that will impress family and friends alike.

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
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Masala Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Cooking the Chicken Tikka:

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
3. Grill the chicken skewers for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Set aside and allow the chicken to cool slightly.

Preparing the Masala Sauce:

1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, heavy cream, tomato paste, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, red chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Assembling the Chicken Tikka Masala:

1. Cut the grilled chicken tikka into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add the chicken to the masala sauce and stir to combine.
3. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken tikka masala hot with your favorite sides, such as:

• Basmati rice
• Naan bread
• Vegetable pilaf
• Raita

Variations

• For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or tofu.
• Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less red chili powder.
• Add chopped fresh cilantro or mint for a burst of freshness.
• Serve with a side of lime wedges for a tangy touch.

Tips for Success

• Marinate the chicken for as long as possible to enhance its flavor.
• Grill the chicken skewers until they have a slightly charred exterior.
• Use a good quality garam masala for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the sauce, as it should have a slightly creamy consistency.

The Perfect Pairing: Rice and Chicken Tikka Masala

Complement your chicken tikka masala with a fluffy and aromatic basmati rice. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter or ghee

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly in a fine-mesh sieve.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the butter or ghee.

Takeaways: A Culinary Masterpiece

Indulge in the vibrant and flavorful world of Indian cuisine with our easy chicken tikka masala recipe. This simple dish is sure to become a favorite, offering a perfect balance of spices, creaminess, and succulent chicken. Experiment with variations, sides, and rice pairings to create a culinary experience that will delight your senses.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Can I make chicken tikka masala without a grill?

Yes, you can cook the chicken tikka in a nonstick skillet or in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

2. How long can I store chicken tikka masala?

Cooked chicken tikka masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Be sure to thaw it completely before marinating.