Indulge in authentic indian flavors: easy chicken tikka masala recipe with premade sauce

Chicken tikka masala, a beloved dish that tantalizes taste buds with its aromatic blend of spices and creamy tomato sauce, has become a culinary staple worldwide. While traditional recipes require hours of preparation, premade sauces offer a convenient and flavorful shortcut to this delectable dish. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the art of creating an authentic-tasting chicken tikka masala using premade sauce, providing step-by-step instructions, ingredient recommendations, and helpful tips to ensure a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons chicken tikka masala premade sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, chicken tikka masala sauce, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Skewer the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.

3. Grill the Chicken: Grill the chicken skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.

4. Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is grilling, warm the remaining chicken tikka masala sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skewers and add it to the saucepan with the sauce. Gently stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.

6. Serve Immediately: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve the chicken tikka masala with your favorite sides, such as basmati rice, naan bread, or raita.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala

• Choose a high-quality premade sauce: The quality of the premade sauce will significantly impact the final flavor of your dish. Opt for sauces that use authentic Indian spices and have a rich, creamy texture.

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will become dry and tough. Grill or pan-sear the chicken just until it’s cooked through to maintain its juiciness.

• Adjust the spice level: The amount of cayenne pepper used in this recipe is optional. If you prefer a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper to taste.

• Garnish generously: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant freshness to the dish. Don’t skip this garnish for an extra layer of flavor.

Variations on the Classic

• Vegetarian Tikka Masala: Substitute tofu or paneer for the chicken for a vegetarian version.

• Creamy Tikka Masala: Add 1/2 cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, more decadent flavor.

• Spicy Tikka Masala: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to the sauce for a fiery kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Basmati Rice: This aromatic rice is the perfect accompaniment to absorb the flavorful sauce.

• Naan Bread: Soft and chewy naan bread provides a delicious way to scoop up every last bit of the dish.

• Raita: This refreshing yogurt-based dip helps balance the spice and add a cooling effect.

The Art of Pairing

• White Wine: A crisp, fruity white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors of chicken tikka masala without overpowering them.

• Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Zinfandel, can also pair well with the dish, especially if it has a spicy kick.

• Beer: A light, refreshing lager or wheat beer can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Alternatives to Premade Sauce

While premade sauces offer convenience, you can also make your own chicken tikka masala sauce from scratch. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 cup tomato puree
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened.

2. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

3. Stir in the tomato puree and cook for 5 minutes.

4. Add the coconut milk and cream (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Thaw it completely before marinating it.

Q: How can I make a vegan version of this dish?

A: Substitute tofu or paneer for the chicken, and use a vegan-friendly premade sauce or make your own sauce using plant-based ingredients.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to overnight. Once cooked, the chicken tikka masala can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.