A warm and encouraging recipe for Spicy Chicken Tikka Masala, featuring tender chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Author:Kenji Sato
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Yield:4-6 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Skillet
Cuisine:Indian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
In a bowl, combine chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Heat ghee or oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add marinated chicken in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
Return chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Stir in heavy cream and heat through, but do not boil.
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
For a milder spice, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
Serve with basmati rice or naan bread.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.