Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most beloved and globally celebrated dishes of Indian cuisine. This rich, creamy, tomato-based curry features tender, marinated chicken that is traditionally grilled and then simmered in a luxurious spiced sauce. The dish beautifully balances smokiness, warmth from Indian spices, gentle heat from chilies, and a velvety finish from cream and butter.

Originally rooted in Indian cooking techniques and later popularized internationally, Chicken Tikka Masala has become a symbol of comfort food across cultures. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with intoxicating aromas, draws everyone to the table, and delivers deep, satisfying flavor in every bite. Whether served with naan, roti, or rice, this dish never fails to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Chicken Tikka Masala recipe because it captures everything I adore about Indian food—bold spices, creamy textures, and perfectly balanced flavors.

The marinated chicken is juicy and smoky, and the silky tomato gravy wraps it in pure comfort. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet familiar, special yet comforting enough for any day of the week.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• One of the most loved Indian curries worldwide
• Perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and smokiness
• Restaurant-style flavors made at home
• Great for both everyday meals and special occasions
• Pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or rice

Recipe Details

Category	Information
Course	Main Course
Cuisine	Indian
Preparation Time	25 minutes
Marination Time	30 minutes to 12 hours
Cooking Time	30 minutes
Total Time	Approx. 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings	4 servings
Calories per Serving	~380–450 calories

Ingredients

For Chicken Marinade (Tikka)

• 500 g boneless chicken (thighs or breasts), cubed
• ½ cup thick yogurt (curd)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste

For Tikka Masala Gravy

• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 cups tomato puree
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 ½ tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• ½ cup fresh cream
• ½ cup water
• Salt to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh coriander leaves
• Extra cream (optional)
• Butter (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, lemon juice, oil, and salt.
2. Add chicken cubes and coat well.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for best flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Tikka

4. Heat a grill pan, oven, or regular pan with a little oil.
5. Cook marinated chicken until nicely charred and fully cooked.
6. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Masala Gravy

7. Heat butter and oil in a pan.
8. Add chopped onion and sauté till golden.
9. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
10. Pour in tomato puree and cook until oil separates.
11. Add chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt.
12. Mix and cook for 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Gravy

13. Add grilled chicken to the sauce.
14. Pour in water for desired consistency.
15. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.
16. Add fresh cream and crushed kasuri methi.
17. Stir gently and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve hot with:

• Butter naan
• Tandoori roti
• Jeera rice
• Plain basmati rice
• Onion salad and lemon wedges

Cooking Tips

✔ Use chicken thighs for juicier results
✔ Don’t skip kasuri methi—it adds signature aroma
✔ Cook tomato puree thoroughly to avoid raw taste
✔ Adjust cream to control richness
✔ Slight charring of chicken adds authentic restaurant flavor

Variations (Detailed)

1. Butter Chicken Style

Add more butter and cream for a sweeter, richer gravy.

2. Spicy Chicken Tikka Masala

Increase red chili powder and add green chilies.

3. Vegan Version

Use grilled tofu or paneer with coconut cream.

4. Smoky Dhaba Style

Give a charcoal smoke (dhungar) using hot coal and ghee.

5. Keto-Friendly Version

Skip onions and sugar-heavy tomatoes; use low-carb alternatives.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for 3–4 days
• Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months
• Reheating: Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of water or cream

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Nonstick pan or grill pan
• Blender (for tomato puree)
• Spatula
• Air fryer or oven (optional for grilling)

FAQ

Q: Can I make it without cream?
Yes, use milk, cashew paste, or coconut cream.

Q: Is Chicken Tikka Masala very spicy?
No, it’s mildly spicy and creamy. You can adjust heat.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes.

Q: Why is my gravy too sour?
Tomatoes weren’t cooked long enough—always cook until oil separates.

Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Masala is a timeless classic that brings together smoky grilled chicken, aromatic spices, and rich creamy tomato gravy into one unforgettable dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor right at home. Once you master it, it will become a permanent favorite in your kitchen.