Savory Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s the aroma of Easy Chicken Tikka Masala wafting through my kitchen, wrapping around me like a warm hug. This dish is a delightful dance of spices and tender chicken in a creamy tomato sauce that can make even the most mundane days feel special. citrusy chicken dish Imagine dipping warm naan into that luscious sauce—pure bliss! For more inspiration, check out this Thai Red Curry Chicken recipe.

Every time I whip up this Easy Chicken Tikka Masala, I’m taken back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air and everyone gathered around the table. refreshing chicken salad It’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at dinner parties. Trust me, once you try it, your taste buds will be forever grateful!

I still remember the first time I served this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust according to your guest list.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; garlic lovers rejoice!

• Fresh Ginger: A key ingredient for that authentic taste; use fresh for the best zing.

• Plain Yogurt: Acts as a marinade tenderizer; opt for whole milk yogurt for creaminess.

• Canned Tomato Puree: Provides rich color and depth; choose quality brands for superior taste.

• Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess; light coconut milk works if you’re watching calories.

• Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): Essential for that signature Indian flavor profile; don’t skimp here!

• Cooking Oil (Vegetable or Olive): Used for sautéing; olive oil adds extra flavor.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, minced garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown and sweet-smelling.

Add Marinade and Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the marinated chicken along with tomato puree and coconut milk. Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.

Cook Until Tender: Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender. The aroma should be heavenly by now!

Finish with Spices and Garnish: Stir in garam masala at the end of cooking for maximum flavor impact. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Serve Hot!: Serve your Easy Chicken Tikka Masala hot over fluffy rice or with warm naan. homemade chicken seasoning Enjoy every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For the best results, marinate the chicken first, then sear it before simmering in the sauce. This method locks in flavor and ensures your chicken is juicy and tender.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap yogurt for coconut milk for a dairy-free version. You can also add spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color, making it your own creation!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover tikka masala in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve its creaminess without curdling.

There was that one time I made this dish for friends’ game night, and they were so impressed, they asked for my secret. I jokingly told them it was “magic,” but really, it’s just love… and a generous amount of spices.

FAQ

What can I substitute for heavy cream in easy chicken tikka masala?

For more inspiration, check out this Crockpot Butter Chicken recipe recipe.

You can use coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter option.

Can I make easy chicken tikka masala ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after the flavors meld together overnight.

What should I serve with easy chicken tikka masala?

savory potato pancakes.

Serve it with basmati rice, naan bread, or a fresh salad for balance.

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Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

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• Author: Anastasia Chen
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Indulge in a classic Indian comfort food with this Easy Chicken Tikka Masala. Bursting with aromatic spices and tender chicken enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for cozy nights or impressing dinner guests. Serve it over fluffy rice or warm naan for an unforgettable meal that tantalizes the taste buds.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp coriander
• 1 tsp salt (to taste)
• ½ tsp pepper (to taste)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 cup canned tomato puree
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 2 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or olive)

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Instructions

1. 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3. Add Marinade and Sauce Ingredients: Stir in marinated chicken along with tomato puree and coconut milk. Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
4. 4. Cook Until Tender: Simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. 5. Finish with Spices and Garnish: Stir in garam masala at the end of cooking for maximum flavor impact. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
6. 6. Serve Hot: Enjoy your Easy Chicken Tikka Masala over rice or with warm naan.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg