Discover the culinary elixir: creamy chicken tikka masala recipe for a symphony of flavors!

Embark on a tantalizing culinary journey with our exquisite chicken tikka masala recipe with cream. This iconic dish, a symphony of flavors from the vibrant tapestry of Indian cuisine, will captivate your taste buds with its rich, velvety sauce and succulent, tender chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken thoroughly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Preparing the Sauce

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.
4. Add the tomato sauce, coconut milk, heavy cream, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
2. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
3. Grill the chicken skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce

1. Add the grilled chicken to the sauce and stir to coat.
2. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken tikka masala with basmati rice, naan bread, or any other desired accompaniment. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips

• For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat.
• To make the sauce ahead of time, simply prepare the sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add the grilled chicken.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute tofu or paneer for the chicken.

Variations

• Butter Chicken: Add 1/2 cup of unsalted butter to the sauce for a richer flavor.
• Tikka Masala with Spinach: Add 1 cup of fresh spinach to the sauce for a vibrant green color and added nutrients.
• Creamy Tomato Tikka Masala: Use only heavy cream instead of coconut milk for a more velvety sauce.

The Art of Pairing

• Wine: Pair chicken tikka masala with a light-bodied white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Beer: A light ale or lager will complement the flavors of the dish.
• Cocktails: A refreshing mojito or a classic margarita will balance the spice of the masala.

The Culinary Legacy

Chicken tikka masala is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, with various theories attributing its creation to chefs in India, Britain, or Bangladesh. Regardless of its birthplace, this dish has become a culinary icon, symbolizing the vibrant and diverse tapestry of Indian cuisine.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

Q: How long can I store the leftover chicken tikka masala?
A: Leftover chicken tikka masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: What are some healthy side dishes to serve with chicken tikka masala?
A: Healthy side dishes to serve with chicken tikka masala include brown rice, quinoa, or a vegetable salad.