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Tikka Masala with Chicken – Creamy, Spiced, and Comforting

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Tender marinated chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce — chicken tikka masala is a classic, flavorful dish perfect with rice or naan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs

  • 1 cup plain yogurt

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp grated ginger

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp turmeric

  • Salt to taste

  • 2 tbsp ghee or oil

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 1 tbsp grated ginger

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tbsp garam masala

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • ½ tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

  • ½¾ cup heavy cream or coconut milk

  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  • Mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and spices. Add chicken and marinate 1 hour or overnight.

  • Sear chicken pieces until lightly charred, then set aside.

  • In same pan, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until golden.

  • Add spices, toast for 30 seconds, then add tomatoes. Simmer 15 minutes.

  • Blend sauce (optional), then add cream and chicken.

  • Simmer another 8–10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.

  • Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.

Notes

Use coconut milk for dairy-free. Serve with rice or naan. Freezes well for up to 2 months.