Description
A beloved Indian-inspired dish featuring marinated, grilled chicken pieces simmered in a rich, spiced tomato-cream sauce. This homemade Chicken Tikka Masala offers a restaurant-style experience, perfect for serving with rice or naan.
Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 cup plain yogurt
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 teaspoons garam masala (plus more for sauce)
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter or ghee
1 1/2 cups tomato puree
1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, half the garlic and ginger, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate for at least 1 hour.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches until charred and nearly cooked through. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter or ghee. Add remaining garlic and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in additional garam masala, turmeric, and paprika. Let the spices bloom.
- Add tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Return the chicken to the pan. Simmer 10–15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce is creamy and rich.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner