Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food while delivering a burst of flavor, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe. With tender pieces of chicken marinated in a luscious yogurt mixture and simmered in a rich, spiced tomato sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan, each bite is a delightful experience that transports you straight to the heart of Indian cuisine.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why it’ll become a staple in your kitchen:

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices creates a rich, aromatic sauce that is bursting with flavor.
• Quick Prep Time: With just a little bit of marinating time and straightforward cooking steps, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in under an hour.
• Family Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken appeal to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well, making it great for meal prepping or leftovers.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll be using:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: Cut into bite-size pieces for easy cooking and eating.
• 1 cup plain yogurt: Acts as a marinade for the chicken, adding tenderness and flavor.
• 1 tbsp minced garlic: Brings a pungent aroma and depth to the dish.
• 2 tsp minced ginger: Adds a refreshing zing that complements the spices.
• 2 tsp garam masala: A warm blend of spices that is essential for authentic flavor.
• 1 tsp turmeric: Provides a vibrant color and earthy taste.
• 1 tsp cumin: Adds a nutty, warm flavor profile.
• 1 tsp chili powder: For a bit of heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onions and chicken.
• 1 tbsp butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
• 1 large onion, finely diced: The base of the sauce, adding sweetness and flavor.
• 2 tbsp minced garlic: Extra garlic for a flavor boost.
• 1 tbsp minced ginger: More ginger for a bright touch.
• 2 tsp garam masala: Double the spice for a deeper flavor.
• 2 tsp cumin: To round out the spice profile.
• 1 tsp turmeric: For continued richness in color and flavor.
• 1 tsp ground coriander: Adds a unique, citrusy element.
• 1 tsp paprika: For color and a hint of sweetness.
• 1 tsp salt: To taste.
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper: Adjust to your spice liking.
• 14 oz tomato puree: The base of your sauce, providing richness and body.
• ½ cup water: To adjust the sauce consistency.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For that signature creamy texture.
• 2 tbsp cilantro, freshly chopped: For garnish, adding freshness to the dish.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you dive into this Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe, make sure you have the following kitchen tools handy:

• Large mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken.
• Skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the chicken and sauce together.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping the chicken and vegetables.
• Serving dishes: To present your delicious meal.

Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe: From Prep to Plate

Ready to cook? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe that will have your kitchen smelling divine.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs, plain yogurt, minced garlic, minced ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Mix everything well until the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and slightly caramelized. Add the additional minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper. Cook the spices for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, allowing them to bloom and release their aromatic oils.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomato Puree

Pour in the tomato puree and water, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the pot, stirring to coat the chicken in the sauce. Cover and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Add the Cream

Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve your creamy chicken tikka masala warm over basmati rice or with naan for a complete meal.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

To elevate your Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe for special occasions or seasonal gatherings, consider these ideas:

• Festive Additions: Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or cauliflower for a seasonal twist.
• Richer Flavor: Substitute coconut milk for half of the heavy cream for a tropical flair.
• Garnish Variations: Top with pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor during the holidays.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or fenugreek for added complexity.

What I Learned Testing

• Marinating the chicken longer enhances the flavor significantly.
• Cooking the spices before adding liquids truly deepens the flavor profile.
• Using heavy cream creates a rich sauce, but you can swap it for half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Fresh cilantro is a must for garnish; it brightens the dish and adds freshness.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe fresh and delicious:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This dish freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if it thickens too much.

Handy Q&A

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! While chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.

What can I serve with chicken tikka masala?

This dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber raita to balance the spices.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Feel free to reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Easy Butter Chicken
• Chickpea Curry
• Vegetable Biryani
• Homemade Naan

Bring It Home

There you have it, a delicious Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe that’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a taste of India right at home. Happy cooking!

Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala is pure comfort food! Marinated chicken in a spiced tomato sauce, served warm over rice or naan.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tsp minced ginger
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Sauce:

• 1 large onion finely diced
• 2 tbsp minced garlic extra for flavor boost
• 1 tbsp minced ginger more for brightness
• 2 tsp garam masala double for deeper flavor
• 2 tsp cumin to round out spice profile
• 1 tsp turmeric for richness
• 1 tsp ground coriander adds a unique element
• 1 tsp paprika for color and sweetness
• 1 tsp salt to taste
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper adjust to liking
• 14 oz tomato puree base of the sauce
• ½ cup water to adjust consistency
• 1 cup heavy cream for creamy texture
• 2 tbsp cilantro freshly chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Serving dishes

Method

 

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs, plain yogurt, minced garlic, minced ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and ginger for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the spices (garam masala, cumin, turmeric, coriander, paprika, salt, and cayenne) and cook for 30 seconds to bloom the flavors.
4. Add tomato puree and water, stirring to combine. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Add marinated chicken to the pot, stirring to coat. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
6. Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and mix until creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve warm over basmati rice or with naan.

Notes

• Marinate chicken longer for enhanced flavor.
• Cook spices before adding liquids for deeper flavor.
• Substitute half of the cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist.