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Delicious Easy Chicken Tikka Masala served with rice and garnished with fresh cilantro.

Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

A simple, cozy, and bold chicken tikka masala recipe that offers big flavor without a lot of steps, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the chicken marinade
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts Thighs stay juicy, breasts tend to dry out.
  • 1 cup plain yogurt Greek yogurt can be used but thin if too thick.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh is best.
  • 1 inch ginger, grated Fresh is recommended.
  • 1 tbsp garam masala Essential for flavor.
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 splash lemon juice Helps to flavor and tenderize chicken.
For the sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil For sautéing.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped Sauté until soft.
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes Good for sauce texture.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a restaurant-style sauce. Can replace with half and half or coconut milk.
  • 1 tbsp sugar or honey To balance acidity.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Marinate chicken in yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices for at least 10 minutes, up to 30.
  2. Brown the chicken in a skillet.
  3. In the same pan, add butter or oil and sauté onions until soft.
  4. Add garlic and ginger, then stir in the spices for about 30 seconds.
  5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and let simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
  6. Lower the heat, add cream and adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Return the chicken to the pan and simmer until cooked through for about 5 to 8 minutes.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick, add water or broth. If too thin, simmer uncovered. Adjust seasoning before serving.