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Chicken Tikka Masala

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This creamy and tangy Chicken Tikka Masala is made with yogurt-marinated chicken in a rich tomato-cream sauce, perfect for scooping with naan or serving over rice.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the marinade
  • 1.5–2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 1–1½ inch pieces Thighs can be used for a juicier texture.
  • 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek works well) Use full-fat for best texture.
  • 1–2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika Smoked paprika for a smoky note.
For the sauce
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 15 oz can tomato sauce For a chunkier texture, use crushed tomatoes.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Mix the marinade by combining yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and paprika in a bowl. Season lightly with salt.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight for extra flavor).
Searing and Saucing
  1. Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove excess marinade and add chicken in a single layer. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly charred and golden. Remove and set aside.
  2. Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the tomato sauce, stir to deglaze the pan, and simmer for 8–10 minutes to deepen the flavor and slightly reduce.
  4. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Return the seared chicken to the skillet and simmer gently for 8–10 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is glossy.
Serving
  1. Sprinkle chopped cilantro before serving. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g

Notes

For deeper flavor, marinate overnight. Adjust spice levels as desired.
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