indian restaurant chicken tikka masala recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best indian restaurant chicken tikka masala recipe

I’ve always been fascinated by the rich history and cultural significance of Indian cuisine. Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most popular dishes in Indian restaurants, and I’ve finally cracked the code to making it at home.

This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and my family loves it just as much as I do. The creamy tomato sauce, the tender chicken, and the aromatic spices all come together to create a truly unforgettable experience.

One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make – just marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices, grill it to perfection, and then simmer it in a flavorful sauce. It’s a game-changer for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration.

And did I mention that it’s actually pretty healthy? The yogurt helps to tenderize the meat, while the spices add a burst of flavor without adding extra calories.

My kids love helping me make this recipe, too – they can’t get enough of the process of grinding up the spices and mixing up the marinade. It’s become a fun family activity that we all look forward to every week.

And when we sit down to eat, everyone raves about how delicious it tastes – it’s truly a treat for all of us.

Chicken Tikka Masala

4.7 from 902 votes

A rich and creamy tomato-based curry, Chicken Tikka Masala is a restaurant style Indian dish featuring tender chicken in a fragrant sauce. This recipe captures the essence of classic Indian restaurant flavors.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time60 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

500g boneless skinless chicken breasts
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

For the Sauce

2 tbsp butter
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 chili powder
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp sugar
Salt to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin, paprika, garam masala, and salt.
3Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
4Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
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 charred on the edges.
7In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
8Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
9Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
10Stir in the cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, and chili powder.
11Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
12Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar.
13Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
14Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt to taste.
15Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
16Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, stirring to combine.
17Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
18If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little water.
19Serve hot with naan bread or rice.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Large skillet
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 145mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: Ensure the chicken is fully marinated for the best flavor. Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Tikka Masala Works

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need something quick and easy for weeknight dinner.

And because it makes such great leftovers, you can be sure that everyone will be happy with what they get.

In fact, I like to make double batches so we have plenty of extra for reheating later.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tikka Masala

What is Chicken Tikka Masala?

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce.

Is this recipe authentic?

No – while this recipe is inspired by traditional Indian cuisine, it’s not strictly authentic. However, it’s been adapted to be more accessible for home cooks.

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes – but keep in mind that boneless breasts will cook more quickly than thighs.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this recipe for later?

Yes – simply thaw and reheat as needed.

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