tikka masala curry recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best tikka masala curry recipe

I’ve been making Tikka Masala curry for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorite dishes. The origin of this recipe is a bit unclear, but it’s believed to have been created in the UK by Indian chefs in the 1970s.

The name ‘Tikka Masala’ roughly translates to ‘shredded meat in a rich sauce.’ This dish is a staple in many Indian restaurants, and its popularity has made it a household name.

I love serving this recipe to my family on special occasions or just as a regular weeknight meal. The combination of tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices is a winner every time.

My kids can’t get enough of it, and I’m always happy to oblige. As for health benefits, this recipe is relatively low in calories and high in protein, making it a great option for families looking to eat well without sacrificing flavor.

The key to making a great Tikka Masala curry is using high-quality spices and cooking the chicken until it’s nice and tender. I like to serve this dish with basmati rice or naan bread for a delicious and filling meal.

Tikka Masala Curry

4.7 from 1600 votes

Tikka Masala is a classic Indian dish featuring tender chicken in a rich, aromatic sauce. This recipe combines marinated chicken with a creamy tomato-based sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp ginger paste
1 tbsp garlic paste
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

For the Sauce

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp salt
1 can (400g) tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp honey
fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin, paprika, garam masala, salt, and cayenne pepper.
2Add chicken to the bowl, ensuring it is well coated.
3Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
5Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
7Remove from the oven and set aside.
8In a large saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
9Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger.
10Sauté until the onions are translucent and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
11Add cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, and salt to the saucepan.
12Stir well to combine the spices with the onion mixture.
13Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
14Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well.
15Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
16The sauce should thicken slightly and the oil should start to separate from the sauce.
17Add the heavy cream and honey to the saucepan.
18Stir well to combine.
19Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
20The sauce should be smooth and well combined.
21Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the sauce.
22Stir gently to combine.
23Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is heated through.
24Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
25Garnish with chopped cilantro.
26Serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice.

🔧Equipment

Baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Saucepan
Spatula
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper. You can also use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more tender texture.

Tikka masala curry is a versatile dish that works well for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.

The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Reheat the curry on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water if needed to maintain the desired consistency.

Serve it with steamed rice, naan bread, or your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish is always a good idea for any occasion and works well for family gatherings.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tikka Masala Curry

1. What is Tikka Masala curry?

Tikka Masala curry is a popular Indian-inspired dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a rich tomato sauce flavored with spices. It’s often served over basmati rice or with naan bread.

2. What are the key ingredients in Tikka Masala curry?

The key ingredients in Tikka Masala curry are chicken breast or thighs, tomato puree, heavy cream, garam masala powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and lemon juice.

3. How do I make sure my Tikka Masala curry is not too spicy?

If you’re concerned about the spiciness of your Tikka Masala curry, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.

4. Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

5. Can I make Tikka Masala curry ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Tikka Masala curry ahead of time by preparing the marinade and cooking the chicken up to 24 hours before serving.

Similar Posts