Name: Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp cumin; 2 tbsp paprika; 1½ tbsp ground coriander; 1½ tsp ground turmeric; ½ tsp Cayenne pepper; ¼ tsp kosher salt; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 lemon; 6 cloves garlic; 2 tbsp ginger; 14 oz crushed tomatoes; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp canola oil

Transform your kitchen into an aromatic haven with this easy chicken tikka masala recipe. Rich and creamy, this dish brings together tender chunks of marinated chicken, bathed in a spiced tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special feast.

Photos of Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Some of the spices like cumin, paprika, ground coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper may not be common in every pantry. Ensure you also have heavy cream and greek yogurt on hand. These ingredients are essential for creating the authentic flavor and creamy texture of the dish.

Ingredients For Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken breasts: Provides the main protein for the dish

Butter: Adds richness and helps to bloom the spices

Cumin: Imparts a warm, earthy flavor

Paprika: Adds color and a mild sweetness

Ground coriander: Lends a citrusy undertone

Ground turmeric: Gives a vibrant yellow color and a slightly bitter taste

Cayenne pepper: Brings heat to the dish

Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors

Greek yogurt: Tenderizes the chicken and adds creaminess

Lemon: Adds acidity to balance the richness

Garlic: Provides a pungent, aromatic base

Ginger: Adds a fresh, spicy note

Crushed tomatoes: Forms the base of the sauce

Heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and creamy

Canola oil: Used for cooking the chicken

One reader, Ferris Sheridan says:

This easy chicken tikka masala recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and authentic, and the steps are straightforward. My family loved it, and it’s now a regular in our meal rotation. Highly recommend!

Ferris Sheridan

Essential Techniques for Making Chicken Tikka Masala

How to cut chicken into chunks: Use a sharp knife to cut the chicken breasts into 2-inch pieces, ensuring uniform size for even cooking. How to mix spices: Combine the cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt in a small bowl, mixing thoroughly to ensure an even blend. How to marinate chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with half the spice mixture, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Let it sit to absorb flavors. How to cook spices: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat and add the remaining spices, stirring for 30 seconds until they release their aroma. How to cook garlic and ginger: Add minced garlic and ginger to the saucepan, stirring for an additional 30 seconds to blend flavors. How to simmer sauce: Add crushed tomatoes and heavy cream to the saucepan, stirring and letting it simmer on low-medium heat for 7 to 10 minutes to thicken. How to cook chicken in batches: Heat canola oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Remove most of the marinade from the chicken pieces and cook them in batches until just cooked through. How to combine chicken and sauce: Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, mixing well to ensure the chicken is fully coated before serving.

How To Make Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

This chicken tikka masala is creamy with a distinct tomato taste and spiced with turmeric, pepper, and coriander for a flavorful Indian curry dish.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4chicken breasts,boneless skinless
1tbspbutter
2tbspcumin
2tbsppaprika
1½tbspground coriander
1½tspground turmeric
½tspcayenne pepper
¼tspkosher salt
1cupGreek yogurt
1lemon,juiced, just under ¼ cup
6clovesgarlic,minced
2tbspginger,minced
14ozcrushed tomatoes,(1 can)
½cupheavy cream
2tbspcanola oil

Instructions

Cut the chicken into 2-inch chunks.
Mix the cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt into a small bowl.
Toss the chicken with half the spices, the greek yogurt, and the lemon juice and let it sit.
In a large saucepan on medium-high heat, add the butter and the rest of the spices, stirring well for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add in the garlic and ginger and stir an additional 30 seconds.
Add in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream, stir and let simmer on low-medium heat for 7 to 10 minutes.
Heat the canola oil in a large skillet on medium high heat.
Remove most of the marinade from the pieces of the chicken before cooking.
Cook the chicken in batches until just cooked through.
Add the sauce to the chicken and mix well before serving.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 418.40kcal
Fat: 28.45g
Saturated Fat: 10.94g
Trans Fat: 0.22g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.53g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.31g
Carbohydrates: 12.59g
Fiber: 3.37g
Sugar: 5.67g
Protein: 30.46g
Cholesterol: 112.88mg
Sodium: 311.26mg
Calcium: 123.18mg
Potassium: 620.04mg
Iron: 4.28mg
Vitamin A: 193.15µg
Vitamin C: 12.92mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala

When marinating the chicken with greek yogurt and spices, ensure the pieces are evenly coated and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. This step not only tenderizes the chicken but also enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

Marinate overnight: Prepare the chicken and spices the night before to let the flavors meld and save time the next day.

Use pre-minced garlic and ginger: Opt for store-bought minced garlic and ginger to cut down on prep time.

Cook in batches: While one batch of chicken is cooking, you can start preparing the next to speed up the process.

Simmer sauce while cooking chicken: Let the sauce simmer while you cook the chicken to multitask efficiently.

Use a food processor: Quickly blend the spices and yogurt marinade using a food processor to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great alternative to chicken breasts.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a higher smoke point and adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements Indian dishes.
cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a similar earthy flavor and can be used in equal amounts.
paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder adds a similar color and a bit more heat, enhancing the dish's flavor profile.
ground coriander - Substitute with cumin: Cumin has a warm, earthy flavor that can stand in for ground coriander.
ground turmeric - Substitute with saffron: Saffron provides a similar color and a unique, slightly sweet flavor.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with red chili flakes: Red chili flakes offer a similar level of heat and can be adjusted to taste.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable replacement.
greek yogurt - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness, making it a good dairy-free alternative.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, enhancing the dish's brightness.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish well.
ginger - Substitute with galangal: Galangal has a similar spicy, aromatic flavor and can be used in equal amounts.
crushed tomatoes - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste provides a concentrated tomato flavor and can be diluted to achieve the desired consistency.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream offers a rich, creamy texture and is a great dairy-free option.
canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil has a similar neutral flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

How to Beautifully Present Chicken Tikka Masala

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken tikka masala in a refined manner by using smaller, bite-sized portions. This allows the flavors to be more concentrated and appreciated by the judges.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped fresh cilantro and a drizzle of heavy cream to add a touch of elegance and color contrast.
Plate with precision: Arrange the chicken pieces neatly on the plate, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the sauce. Use a ring mold to keep the presentation tidy and professional.
Add texture: Include a side of crispy papadum or a small portion of basmati rice to add a contrasting texture to the creamy chicken tikka masala.
Highlight ingredients: Place a small wedge of lemon on the side of the plate to emphasize the citrus notes in the marinade and add a pop of color.
Use high-quality serveware: Present the dish on a pristine white plate to make the vibrant colors of the chicken tikka masala stand out, ensuring a visually appealing presentation.
Create height: Stack the chicken pieces slightly to give the dish height and dimension, making it more visually interesting.
Incorporate microgreens: Add a few microgreens on top of the dish for a fresh, modern touch that adds both flavor and visual appeal.
Balance the plate: Ensure there is a balance of colors and textures on the plate, with the chicken tikka masala as the focal point, complemented by the garnishes and sides.
Serve hot: Ensure the chicken tikka masala is served at the perfect temperature, hot and fresh, to maximize the flavors and aromas for the judges.

Essential Tools for Making Chicken Tikka Masala

Cutting board: A sturdy surface to safely cut the chicken breasts into 2-inch chunks.
Chef's knife: Essential for cutting the chicken and mincing the garlic and ginger.
Mixing bowl: Used to mix the chicken with the spices, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring out the spices, butter, and canola oil.
Small bowl: To mix the cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt.
Large saucepan: For cooking the butter, spices, garlic, ginger, crushed tomatoes, and heavy cream to make the sauce.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the spices, garlic, ginger, and sauce.
Large skillet: Used to cook the marinated chicken pieces in batches.
Tongs: Helpful for turning the chicken pieces while cooking them in the skillet.
Spatula: Useful for mixing the sauce with the cooked chicken.
Serving dish: To present the finished chicken tikka masala.
Measuring cup: For measuring the Greek yogurt and heavy cream.
Juicer: To extract the lemon juice efficiently.
Garlic press: Optional, but can be used to mince the garlic cloves quickly.

Storing and Freezing Chicken Tikka Masala: A Guide

Let the chicken tikka masala cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled tikka masala to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
If using a container, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the tikka masala to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Store the tikka masala in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw the tikka masala in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
Transfer the thawed or refrigerated tikka masala to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the tikka masala seems too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.
Serve the reheated chicken tikka masala over freshly cooked basmati rice or with warm naan bread on the side.

The Best Ways to Reheat Chicken Tikka Masala Leftovers

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover chicken tikka masala to a saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the chicken and sauce are evenly heated without drying out or burning.
Microwave method: place the leftover chicken tikka masala in a microwave-safe container and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dish is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it may become tough or rubbery.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover chicken tikka masala to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken and sauce are heated through. This method is ideal if you have a large quantity of leftovers or if you want to reheat the dish slowly to maintain its texture and flavor.
Slow cooker method: if you have a slow cooker or crockpot, you can use it to reheat your leftover chicken tikka masala. Simply transfer the leftovers to the slow cooker, cover it, and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until the dish is heated through. This method is perfect for those who want to reheat their leftovers without much effort or attention.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to stir the chicken tikka masala occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching. You can also add a splash of water or cream to the dish if the sauce appears too thick or dry during reheating. Once the dish is heated through, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.

Interesting Fact About Chicken Tikka Masala

A random fact about this recipe is that chicken tikka masala is often considered a fusion dish, blending Indian and British culinary traditions. The creamy sauce and the use of heavy cream are more typical of British cuisine, while the spices and marinade reflect traditional Indian cooking techniques.

Is Making Chicken Tikka Masala at Home Cost-Effective?

This easy chicken tikka masala recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, greek yogurt, and crushed tomatoes are affordable and readily available. Spices such as cumin, paprika, and ground coriander are pantry staples that can be used in multiple dishes, adding to their value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Chicken Tikka Masala Healthy or Unhealthy?

The chicken tikka masala recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few key ingredients:

Heavy cream and butter add significant amounts of saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
The recipe calls for a considerable amount of salt, which can lead to high blood pressure if consumed regularly.
Canola oil, used for cooking the chicken, is a refined oil that may contain unhealthy trans fats.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:

Greek yogurt, which is a good source of protein and probiotics.
Spices like cumin, paprika, coriander, and turmeric, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may provide various health benefits.
Garlic and ginger, both known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as coconut milk or a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk.
Reduce the amount of butter used or substitute it with a healthier oil, like olive oil.
Opt for a lower-sodium crushed tomato product and reduce the amount of added salt.
Use a healthier cooking oil, such as avocado oil or coconut oil, instead of canola oil.
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish by adding bell peppers, onions, or spinach to boost the nutrient content.
Serve the chicken tikka masala with brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to increase the fiber content.

Editor's Opinion on This Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

This easy chicken tikka masala recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, balancing aromatic spices with creamy richness. The use of Greek yogurt and lemon in the marinade tenderizes the chicken beautifully, while the spice blend adds depth. Cooking the chicken separately ensures it remains juicy. The sauce, with its fragrant garlic and ginger, melds perfectly with the tomatoes and cream. However, consider adding a touch of garam masala for an extra layer of warmth. Overall, it's a well-rounded, accessible dish that captures the essence of traditional tikka masala with a streamlined approach.

Enhance Your Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Naan: Garlic Naan: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked naan, infused with garlic and brushed with melted butter. This soft and fluffy bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of the rich and creamy chicken tikka masala sauce. A match made in culinary heaven!

Cucumber Raita: Cucumber Raita: A cool and refreshing yogurt dip, studded with finely chopped cucumbers and a hint of mint. This side dish offers a delightful contrast to the spicy and robust flavors of the main course, providing a soothing balance to your palate.

Jeera Rice: Jeera Rice: Fragrant basmati rice cooked with aromatic cumin seeds and a touch of ghee. This simple yet flavorful rice dish complements the rich and creamy chicken tikka masala, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Mango Chutney: Mango Chutney: A sweet and tangy mango chutney that adds a burst of flavor to your meal. The combination of ripe mangoes, spices, and a hint of vinegar creates a delightful contrast to the savory and spicy notes of the chicken tikka masala.

Spiced Lentil Soup: Spiced Lentil Soup: A warm and comforting lentil soup, infused with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and a touch of turmeric. This hearty soup not only complements the main dish but also adds an extra layer of depth and warmth to your meal.

Delicious Alternatives to Chicken Tikka Masala

Butter Chicken: Indulge in the creamy and rich flavors of butter chicken. This dish features tender pieces of chicken cooked in a luscious tomato and cream sauce, spiced with a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner night.

Chicken Korma: Experience the delicate and fragrant taste of chicken korma. This dish combines succulent chicken pieces with a creamy yogurt and nut-based sauce, infused with a medley of spices for a truly delightful meal.

Paneer Tikka Masala: For a vegetarian twist, try paneer tikka masala. This dish features cubes of paneer marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, then cooked in a rich tomato and cream sauce. A perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Lamb Rogan Josh: Savor the robust and hearty flavors of lamb rogan josh. This dish showcases tender pieces of lamb slow-cooked in a fragrant tomato and yogurt sauce, enriched with a blend of traditional spices. Ideal for a special occasion.

Vegetable Biryani: Delight in the aromatic and colorful vegetable biryani. This dish features a medley of vegetables and basmati rice, cooked with a fragrant mix of spices and herbs. A perfect one-pot meal for any day of the week.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Chicken Tikka Masala

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are then baked until golden and bubbly, offering a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy mushrooms, making each bite a burst of umami goodness. Serve these warm and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Picture crispy baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate the flavors, making each bite a refreshing and aromatic experience. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with its bright colors and fresh ingredients. Perfect for any gathering, it sets the tone for a delightful meal ahead.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of a chocolate lava cake. The warm, gooey chocolate oozes out as you take your first bite, creating a decadent experience. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of hot and cold. Garnish with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the presentation. This dessert is perfect for those who crave a luxurious, chocolate-filled treat after a savory meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Savor the tangy and sweet flavors of a lemon meringue pie. The zesty lemon filling provides a refreshing burst of citrus, while the fluffy meringue topping adds a light, airy texture. The buttery, flaky crust ties everything together, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and garnish with a twist of lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor.

Why trust this Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe:

This easy chicken tikka masala recipe is a must-try for anyone craving authentic Indian flavors without the hassle. The blend of cumin, paprika, and ground coriander creates a rich, aromatic base, while greek yogurt and lemon juice tenderize the chicken to perfection. The creamy tomato sauce with heavy cream adds a luxurious touch. Follow these simple steps for a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Want to share your experience making this Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe or discuss variations you've tried? Join the conversation in our Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Ideally, you should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge will make it even better.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and can add more flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative if you're looking for a lighter option or need to avoid dairy. It will slightly change the flavor but still be delicious.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! Chicken tikka masala often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

What can I serve with chicken tikka masala?

I love serving it with basmati rice or naan bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.