Taste the magic: delicious chicken tikka masala with base gravy, simplified

Indulge in the tantalizing aroma and delectable flavors of homemade chicken tikka masala with this exceptional recipe that utilizes a flavorful base gravy. This authentic dish will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of India, leaving you craving more with every bite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka Marinade:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Base Gravy:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup water

For the Chicken Tikka Masala:

• The marinated chicken
• The base gravy
• 1 bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with all the marinade ingredients. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

2. Make the Base Gravy

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened. Add the garlic, ginger, and tomato paste and cook for 1 minute more.

Stir in the cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 30 seconds, then gradually add the heavy cream and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened.

3. Grill the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

4. Combine the Chicken and Gravy

Add the grilled chicken to the base gravy. Stir well to combine.

5. Add the Bell Pepper

Add the bell pepper strips to the chicken tikka masala. Cook for 5-7 minutes more, or until the bell pepper is tender.

6. Garnish and Serve

Stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve the chicken tikka masala over rice or naan bread.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use full-fat yogurt in the marinade.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat.
• If you want a spicier dish, add more garam masala or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• To make the recipe ahead of time, cook the chicken tikka masala and let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat over medium heat until warmed through.

Health Benefits of Chicken Tikka Masala

In addition to its delicious taste, chicken tikka masala offers several health benefits:

• High in protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Chicken tikka masala contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron, zinc, and magnesium.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: The spices used in this dish, such as turmeric and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties.

Variations

• Chicken Tikka Masala with Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables to the dish, such as carrots, peas, or cauliflower.
• Chicken Tikka Masala with Paneer: Replace the chicken with paneer, an Indian cheese, for a vegetarian version.
• Chicken Tikka Masala with Coconut Milk: Add 1/2 cup of coconut milk to the base gravy for a creamy and flavorful twist.

Final Note

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this chicken tikka masala recipe using base gravy will delight your palate with its authentic flavors and ease of preparation. Its versatility allows for customization, making it a dish that can be enjoyed by all. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.

Top Questions Asked

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They will take a bit longer to cook, so adjust the grilling time accordingly.

2. What is the best way to store leftover chicken tikka masala?

Store leftover chicken tikka masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat over medium heat until warmed through.

3. How do I make the chicken tikka masala spicier?

To make the chicken tikka masala spicier, add more garam masala or cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also add a pinch of red chili flakes to the base gravy.