Indulge in restaurant-quality chicken tikka masala with our paste-based recipe

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of India with our effortless chicken tikka masala recipe using paste. This culinary masterpiece combines tender chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and a creamy, flavorful sauce. With the convenience of pre-made paste, you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup chicken tikka masala paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

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

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, tikka masala paste, cumin, coriander, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3. Make the Sauce: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute more.

4. Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.

5. Create the Creamy Sauce: In a blender or with an immersion blender, puree the tomato mixture until smooth. Return to the saucepan and stir in the heavy cream, water, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Add the grilled chicken to the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes more, or until the chicken is heated through.

7. Serve: Serve the chicken tikka masala with your favorite sides, such as basmati rice, naan bread, or raita.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality paste: The flavor of your tikka masala will depend on the quality of the paste you use. Choose a brand that offers authentic flavors and a smooth consistency.
• Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken allows the spices to penetrate the meat and enhance the flavor. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
• Grill the chicken: Grilling the chicken gives it a smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce. You can also bake or pan-fry the chicken if you don’t have a grill.
• Adjust the heat: Chicken tikka masala can be made as mild or spicy as you like. Add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to taste.

Variations:

• Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
• Different vegetables: You can add other vegetables to your tikka masala, such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas.
• Spicy version: Increase the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Basmati rice: This fragrant rice is the perfect accompaniment to chicken tikka masala.
• Naan bread: Soft and fluffy naan bread is great for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
• Raita: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce that helps balance the richness of the tikka masala.

The Final Word: A Culinary Triumph

With its tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and effortless preparation, this chicken tikka masala recipe using paste is a culinary triumph. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a taste of India, this dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So gather your ingredients, fire up your grill, and embark on a culinary adventure that will transport you to the vibrant streets of India.

Information You Need to Know

Q: What is the best way to marinate the chicken?

A: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat and enhance the flavor.

Q: Can I use a different type of chicken?

A: Yes, you can use any type of boneless, skinless chicken you have on hand. Chicken thighs will result in a juicier dish, while chicken breasts will be leaner.

Q: How can I make the sauce spicier?

A: Add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to taste. You can also add a chopped serrano or jalapeño pepper for an extra kick.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken tikka masala?

A: Basmati rice, naan bread, and raita are all classic side dishes that pair well with chicken tikka masala. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.

Q: How long will the chicken tikka masala keep in the refrigerator?

A: Chicken tikka masala will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it over medium heat until warmed through before serving.