Chicken Tikka Masala

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

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that combines marinated chicken with a rich, creamy tomato sauce, delivering a burst of flavors in every bite.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:15:37.210Z

Chicken Tikka Masala is a classic Indian dish that has gained popularity worldwide. It features tender pieces of chicken marinated in spices and yogurt, then grilled and simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat paired with the creaminess of coconut milk and the aromatic spices of India.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken infused with spices and yogurt
Creamy tomato sauce that’s full of flavor
Perfectly paired with rice or naan for a complete meal

      

The Origins of Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish that beautifully marries Indian and British cuisine, often regarded as one of the UK's favorite meals. Its origins are somewhat disputed, with some claiming it was created in India and others asserting it was invented in the UK. This delightful dish showcases the rich culinary traditions of both cultures, making it a beloved staple in many households around the world.

The preparation involves marinating chicken in a blend of spices and yogurt, then grilling or baking it to perfection. The addition of a creamy tomato sauce brings a luxurious touch, making this dish not only flavorful but also visually appealing. Whether enjoyed at a local restaurant or made at home, Chicken Tikka Masala continues to captivate taste buds globally.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala

To achieve the best flavor, marinating the chicken for an extended period is key. If time allows, opt for an overnight marinade; this allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in tender, flavorful chicken. Even a 30-minute soak can make a significant difference, so don’t skip this step if you can help it.

When it comes to grilling or baking, ensure that your chicken is evenly cooked. If using skewers, keep the pieces uniform in size to promote even cooking. If baking, consider using a broiler towards the end for a charred finish that replicates the smoky flavor of traditional tandoori cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Tikka Masala is traditionally served with basmati rice or naan, both of which complement the rich sauce perfectly. The fluffy rice absorbs the sauce, while naan provides a delightful way to scoop up every bite. You can also add a side of raita, a yogurt-based side dish, to balance the spices and enhance the meal.

For a complete dining experience, consider pairing your Chicken Tikka Masala with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables. This not only adds nutrition to your meal but also provides a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce, making every bite exciting.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

500g chicken breast, cubed
200g plain yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp chili powder
Salt to taste

For the Sauce

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
400g canned tomatoes, crushed
200ml coconut milk
1 tbsp garam masala
1 tsp chili powder
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl for the best results.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for best flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or oven. Skewering the marinated chicken, grill or bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and slightly charred.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, garam masala, and chili powder to the pan. Simmer for 10 minutes. Add grilled chicken pieces, stir well, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

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

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala!

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen and improve after the dish sits for a while, making it a great option for meal prep. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce thickens too much.

If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.

Variations to Try

While the classic Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is always a hit, there are numerous variations to explore. For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas to create a delightful alternative that still captures the essence of the dish. The marination process remains the same, ensuring that the spices shine through.

You can also experiment with different types of protein, such as shrimp or tofu. Adjust the cooking times accordingly, especially for seafood, to prevent overcooking. Each variation allows you to enjoy the beloved flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala in a new and exciting way.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for Chicken Tikka Masala?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, the flavors develop beautifully when made a day ahead. Just reheat before serving.

→ What should I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

It pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even a fresh salad.