HOW TO MAKE BEST CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA RECIPE

Get ready to impress your taste buds with this mouth-watering Easy Chicken Tikka Masala that will make you ditch your takeout menu! Whether you believe it originated in India or Great Britain, there’s no denying that this creamy and fragrant dish has become a staple in many households worldwide. But why settle for a mediocre version from a restaurant when you can make an even better one in the comfort of your own kitchen? Follow this easy recipe, and you’ll be enjoying a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Origins of Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe:

The origins of Chicken Tikka Masala recipe are somewhat disputed, and there are different theories about its origin. Some sources suggest that the dish may have originated in the Indian subcontinent, possibly in the Punjab region. It is believed that the dish was first made by marinating small pieces of chicken in spices and yogurt, which were then skewered and grilled in a tandoor (clay oven) before being added to a creamy tomato-based sauce.

However, there is also a theory that the dish actually originated in the UK, where it was created by South Asian chefs who adapted traditional Indian recipes to suit British tastes. It is said that the dish was first created in Glasgow, Scotland, in the 1970s, when a customer complained that his chicken was too dry, and the chef added some tomato soup to the dish to moisten it up, creating the sauce that we know today.

Despite the controversy surrounding its origin, Chicken Tikka Masala recipe has become an extremely popular dish worldwide and is enjoyed by millions of people every day.

Ingredients To Make Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe:

Chicken marinade:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried ginger powder
• 1 tsp dried turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp ground dried coriander
• 1 tsp ground dried cardamom
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp habanero powder

Sauce:

• 14oz tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 tbs butter
• 1 tbs sugar
• 2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp ground dried coriander
• 1 tsp ground dried cardamom
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp habanero powder
• 1 tbs chopped cilantro

Instructions For Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe:

1. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix all ingredients for the chicken marinade. Add the chicken and mix until the chicken is evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill until mostly done.
4. In a skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Add garlic powder, salt, turmeric, cumin, ginger, Kashmiri chili powder, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and habanero powder. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add the tomato puree and sugar. Stir well.
7. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, until it darkens slightly.
8. Add the heavy cream and stir.
9. Add the grilled chicken to the sauce. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
10. Top with chopped cilantro.
11. Serve with basmati rice. Enjoy!

Tips For Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

1. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, and they’re less likely to dry out when cooked. You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer, but keep in mind that they may take a little longer to cook.
2. Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Be sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour, or even overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Use a grill or grill pan: Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the rich and creamy tomato sauce. You can use an outdoor grill or a grill pan on the stove.
4. Toast the spices: To enhance the flavor of the spices, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a minute or two before adding them to the sauce.
5. Use high-quality ingredients: Use the freshest and highest-quality ingredients you can find to ensure the best flavor. This includes fresh ginger, garlic, and cilantro, as well as good quality spices and tomato puree.
6. Adjust the spice level to your taste: Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe calls for habanero powder, which can be quite spicy. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or leave it out entirely. Alternatively, if you like it spicy, you can add more.
7. Simmer the sauce to thicken it: Simmering the sauce for 10-15 minutes helps to thicken it and develop the flavors. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan.
8. Serve with rice: Chicken tikka masala recipe is traditionally served with basmati rice, which has a nutty flavor that complements the dish. Be sure to cook the rice according to the package instructions, and fluff it with a fork before serving.

Variations Of Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

1. Vegetable Tikka Masala: Use a mix of vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, onions, and peas instead of chicken for a vegetarian version. You can also add paneer (Indian cheese) for extra protein and creaminess.
2. Coconut Milk Tikka Masala: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter and dairy-free version of the dish. The coconut milk will add a sweet and nutty flavor that pairs well with the spices.
3. Cashew Tikka Masala: Use cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a nutty and creamy version of the dish. Soak 1 cup of cashews in water for a few hours or overnight, then blend them in a food processor with a little water until smooth.
4. Grilled Tikka Masala: Grill the vegetables or chicken separately from the sauce and then combine them just before serving. This gives the dish a smoky flavor and makes it perfect for summer barbecues.
5. Instant Pot Tikka Masala: Use an Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker to make the dish quickly and easily. Sauté the chicken and spices in the Instant Pot, then add the tomato puree and cream and pressure cook for 8-10 minutes.
6. Butter Chicken: Butter chicken is a similar dish to chicken tikka masala that uses boneless chicken instead of chicken thighs. The sauce is made with a tomato-based gravy that’s spiced with garam masala, ginger, garlic, and fenugreek. Butter chicken is known for its rich and creamy flavor, and it’s often served with naan bread or rice.
7. Tikka Masala Pizza: Use the chicken tikka masala sauce as a pizza topping instead of traditional tomato sauce. Top with grilled chicken, bell peppers, onions, and cheese for a fusion dish that’s sure to please.

FAQ’s Of Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Q: Is chicken tikka masala Recipe spicy?

A: It can be, depending on how much chili powder and habanero powder you use. The recipe provided includes a moderate amount of spice, but you can adjust it to your liking.

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

A: Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer, but keep in mind that they may take a little longer to cook and can be less flavorful than chicken thighs.

Q: Can I make chicken tikka masala ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the sauce and grill the chicken ahead of time, then combine them just before serving. You can also store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze chicken tikka masala Recipe?

A: Yes, you can freeze chicken tikka masala for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, then thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I serve with chicken tikka masala recipe?

A: Chicken tikka masala is traditionally served with basmati rice and naan bread, but you can also serve it with other Indian dishes like samosas or pakoras, or with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Q: Can I make a vegetarian version of chicken tikka masala recipe?

A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using a mix of vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, onions, and peas instead of chicken. You can also add paneer (Indian cheese) for extra protein and creaminess.

Q: What is the difference between chicken tikka masala and butter chicken?

A: Chicken tikka masala recipe and butter chicken are similar dishes, but butter chicken is made with boneless chicken instead of chicken thighs, and the sauce is made with a tomato-based gravy that’s spiced with garam masala, ginger, garlic, and fenugreek. Butter chicken is known for its rich and creamy flavor, and it’s often served with naan bread or rice.

Check out more recipes:

EASY PUMPKIN CHICKEN CURRY RECIPE WITH COCONUT MILK

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