Ultimate comfort food: tesco’s chicken tikka masala recipe for a perfect night in

Indulge in the delectable flavors of India with our authentic chicken tikka masala recipe, made with fresh ingredients from Tesco. This classic dish combines tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices and a creamy, flavorful sauce that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka Marinade:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 (14-ounce) can of diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
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 for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred.

Making the Sauce:

1. Heat a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and water.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Combining the Tikka and Sauce:

1. Add the grilled chicken tikka to the sauce.
2. Stir gently to coat the chicken in the sauce.
3. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken tikka masala with basmati rice, naan bread, or your favorite side dishes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala

• For a richer flavor, use full-fat yogurt and heavy cream.
• Adjust the spices to your taste preferences. If you like a spicier dish, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper.
• Don’t overcook the chicken. It should be cooked through but still tender and juicy.
• Let the sauce simmer for as long as possible to develop its full flavor.

Variations

• Vegetable Tikka Masala: Substitute the chicken with your favorite vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower.
• Paneer Tikka Masala: Use paneer (Indian cheese) instead of chicken.
• Shrimp Tikka Masala: Swap the chicken for shrimp.

Health Benefits of Chicken Tikka Masala

• Chicken is a lean protein that provides essential amino acids.
• Yogurt contains probiotics that support gut health.
• Spices like turmeric and cumin have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Tomatoes are a good source of antioxidants.

Wrap-Up: A Culinary Journey to India

With its vibrant spices and creamy sauce, our chicken tikka masala recipe from Tesco is a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to the heart of India. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to create an authentic and unforgettable dish.

Popular Questions

Q1: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They will have a slightly different texture but will be equally delicious.

Q2: How can I make the sauce spicier?
A: Add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to your liking.

Q3: Can I freeze chicken tikka masala?
A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken tikka masala for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q4: What side dishes go well with chicken tikka masala?
A: Basmati rice, naan bread, roti, or your favorite Indian side dishes.

Q5: Can I make chicken tikka masala in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, cook the chicken tikka on skewers in the slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. Then, remove the chicken and make the sauce in a separate pan. Combine the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker and cook on low for 1-2 hours more.