Chicken tikka masala is a popular North Indian dish that involves marinating tender chicken pieces and coating them with a spicy masala sauce. The recipe requires spices like chili powder, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, which are mixed with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, salt, and turmeric. The chicken is then baked in the oven, and a creamy masala sauce is prepared by cooking onions, tomato paste, and heavy cream, among other ingredients. Once the chicken is fully coated in the masala, it is served hot with rice or naan bread.

Delicious and Spicy Indian Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Introduction

Chicken tikka masala is a famous North Indian dish that is made from tender and moist chicken pieces that are generously coated with a spicy masala sauce. This dish has a creamy texture and a rich flavor that makes it a favorite among food enthusiasts. If you are a fan of Indian cuisine and want to prepare delicious and spicy chicken tikka masala, then follow the simple steps in this recipe for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients

• 1 kg boneless chicken
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tbsp turmeric
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp coriander
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
• 2 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Wash the chicken in cold running water and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Cut the chicken into small 2-inch pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, coriander, salt, and lemon juice to the bowl and mix well to coat the chicken pieces evenly.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the chicken to marinate and absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Grease a large baking sheet with oil and place the marinated chicken pieces on it.
3. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the edges are slightly charred.

Step 3: Making the Masala Sauce

1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and cook for 5 minutes or until softened and golden brown. Add crushed garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add tomato paste to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until darkened and caramelized.
4. Pour in the cream and stir well to combine with the tomato paste mixture.
5. Stir in the sugar and add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the baked chicken pieces to the sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully coated with the masala.

Step 4: Serving the Dish

1. Transfer the chicken tikka masala to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
2. Serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice and enjoy the beautiful flavors of Indian cuisine at the comfort of your home.

Conclusion

The Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is fairly simple to make and is a dish that has the potential to impress any guest. The marriage of spices and chicken creates a rich and bold flavor that will have everyone begging for seconds. By following the steps above, you are sure to have a savory and aromatic meal that is perfect for any occasion.