Spice up your night: a flavorful chicken tikka masala recipe designed for 8

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of authentic Indian cuisine with our delectable chicken tikka masala recipe, meticulously crafted to serve eight hungry souls. This culinary masterpiece is a symphony of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and a velvety tomato-based sauce that will transport your taste buds to a realm of culinary bliss. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish, made with love and the finest ingredients.

Ingredients: An Array of Culinary Delights

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

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Culinary Perfection

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Grilling or Pan-Frying the Chicken:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess.
3. Grill or pan-fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Set aside the chicken to rest while you prepare the sauce.

Making the Sauce:

1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until softened.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded.
4. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce:

1. Add the grilled chicken to the sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and coated in the flavorful sauce.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Culinary Experience

• Pair the chicken tikka masala with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a traditional Indian experience.
• Serve with a side of raita (cucumber-yogurt salad) to balance the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
• Offer a variety of chutneys, such as mango chutney or mint chutney, to enhance the flavors and cater to different tastes.

Health Benefits: A Culinary Delight that Nourishes

• Chicken tikka masala is a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• The spices used in the dish, such as cumin and turmeric, have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit overall health.
• The yogurt in the marinade and sauce provides probiotics, which support gut health and digestion.

Variations: Culinary Creativity at Your Fingertips

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu.
• Add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor profile. For example, add a dash of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm and aromatic touch.

Storage: Preserving the Culinary Masterpiece

• Store the chicken tikka masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the dish over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freeze the chicken tikka masala for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thoughts: A Culinary Journey that Enchants and Delights

Our chicken tikka masala recipe for 8 is a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and create lasting memories around the dinner table. With its aromatic spices, tender chicken, and velvety sauce, this dish is a testament to the richness and diversity of Indian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, we invite you to embark on this culinary journey and savor the flavors of authentic Indian cooking.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

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

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will take slightly longer to cook, so adjust the grilling or pan-frying time accordingly.

2. What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?

You can pan-fry the chicken in a large skillet over medium heat. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it before adding the chicken.

4. How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red chili powder.

5. What are some other side dishes that pair well with chicken tikka masala?

In addition to rice and naan bread, you can serve the chicken tikka masala with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or a papadum appetizer.