Chicken Tikka Masala Garam Masala

Name: Chicken Tikka Masala Garam Masala
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g chicken breast, cut into cubes; 200g plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 teaspoon coriander powder; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 400g canned tomatoes, crushed; 200ml coconut milk; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

Delight in the rich and aromatic flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala, enhanced with a homemade Garam Masala blend that takes this classic dish to a whole new level.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:40:27.609Z

This Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, featuring tender chicken pieces marinated in spices and yogurt, then grilled and simmered in a creamy tomato sauce with aromatic spices. The addition of freshly made Garam Masala makes this recipe stand out, delivering an authentic taste that will impress your family and friends.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that create a warm and inviting flavor profile
Creamy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken
Easily customizable to suit your spice tolerance

      

The Essence of Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that originated from the Indian subcontinent, known for its rich and creamy sauce that envelops succulent pieces of chicken. The marriage of marinated chicken and a robust tomato-based sauce creates a comforting dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. This recipe not only highlights traditional flavors but also invites you to experiment with your own variations, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

The secret to an authentic Chicken Tikka Masala lies in the marination process. By allowing the chicken to soak in yogurt and spices, you ensure that each bite is infused with flavor and tenderness. This method not only enhances the taste but also helps retain moisture during cooking, resulting in juicy chicken pieces that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Garam Masala: A Flavorful Foundation

Garam Masala is a quintessential spice blend in Indian cooking, comprising various aromatic spices that bring warmth and depth to dishes. By creating your own Garam Masala at home, you can tailor the blend to suit your taste preferences, ensuring it perfectly complements the Chicken Tikka Masala. Common ingredients include cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper, each contributing unique notes that elevate the overall flavor profile.

Incorporating homemade Garam Masala into your cooking not only enhances the dish but also allows you to explore the vast world of spices. Take the time to toast and grind your spices for the freshest flavor possible. This simple yet impactful step can transform your Chicken Tikka Masala from good to extraordinary, making it a dish that resonates with authenticity and love.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Chicken Tikka Masala is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with fragrant basmati rice, which soaks up the flavors and adds a delightful texture to each bite. Alternatively, serving it with warm naan bread allows you to enjoy the sauce in a more hands-on way, making for a comforting and satisfying meal. Don't forget to offer some tangy cucumber raita on the side; it provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the dish.

For those looking to enhance their dining experience, consider pairing your Chicken Tikka Masala with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. The crunch of fresh vegetables can balance the richness of the dish, while a light salad can cleanse the palate. This balance of flavors and textures makes for a well-rounded meal that you and your guests will cherish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

500g chicken breast, cut into cubes
200g plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon chili powder
400g canned tomatoes, crushed
200ml coconut milk
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Salt to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken cubes with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute.

Add Spices and Tomatoes

Add ground cumin, coriander, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, then add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

While the sauce simmers, grill or pan-fry the marinated chicken until cooked through. Add the chicken to the sauce along with coconut milk, stirring to combine. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala with your favorite sides!

Tips for Perfecting Your Dish

To ensure that your Chicken Tikka Masala is a success, it’s crucial to allow ample time for marination. Ideally, marinate the chicken overnight to let the flavors penetrate deeply. If time is short, even 30 minutes will yield better results than skipping this step altogether. Additionally, searing the chicken before adding it to the sauce can enhance its flavor dramatically.

Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. If you enjoy a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder or opt for sweet paprika instead. Conversely, for those who crave heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh green chilies to the sauce. Personalizing the heat level will ensure that everyone at your table enjoys their meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying your Chicken Tikka Masala, you’ll be pleased to know that it stores beautifully. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. The flavors often deepen when stored, making it even more delectable when reheated.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also use a microwave, but be mindful to heat it in short intervals and stir in between to maintain the creamy consistency of the sauce. Enjoy your delicious leftovers just as much as the first serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use lamb, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add more chili powder or include chopped green chilies in the sauce.

→ Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavors.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

It pairs well with basmati rice, naan, or a side salad.