Chicken Tikka Masala

Introduction

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish that has become a favorite in many households around the world. This flavorful and aromatic dish consists of marinated pieces of chicken that are cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. Chicken Tikka Masala is a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests. In this article, we will discuss the recipe for Chicken Tikka Masala, including the ingredients and steps required to make this delicious dish.

Ingredients For the Chicken Tikka:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp minced ginger
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Masala Sauce:

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp minced ginger
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, minced ginger, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, cumin, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F.
2. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
3. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.
5. Remove the chicken from the skewers and set aside.

Making the Masala Sauce:

1. In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and minced ginger and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the garam masala, paprika, turmeric, cumin, and salt and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes to the saucepan and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine.
8. Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce and simmer for another 5-10 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is hot and bubbly.
9. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.

Serving Suggestions:

Chicken Tikka Masala is typically served over steamed rice, with naan bread or roti on the side. You can also garnish with additional fresh cilantro, if desired.

Variations:

• For a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt and substitute coconut milk for heavy cream.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add additional red chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade or sauce.