What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Chicken Tikka Masala is a crowd-pleaser, packed with bold flavors and easy to make. You’ll love how simple it is to recreate this restaurant favorite at home.
Rich, creamy sauce – A perfect blend of tomatoes, cream, and spices that’s both tangy and comforting.
Tender, juicy chicken – Marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked to perfection for maximum flavor.
Customizable heat level – Adjust the spices to make it mild or fiery, just how you like it.
Recipe
Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved Indian dish featuring tender pieces of marinated chicken cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. This homemade version delivers authentic flavors with a perfect balance of spices.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, salt, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken pieces, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add marinated chicken (reserve excess marinade) and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, reserved marinade, tomato paste, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer for another 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Notes:
- For extra heat, add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Substitute Greek yogurt if plain yogurt is unavailable.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or deep pan
- Wooden spoon
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes (+ marinating time)
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Indian
Serving: 4-6
Nutrition
Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful dish that combines spices and rich ingredients. Here is the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on one serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Total Carbs | 12g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 25g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my chicken tikka masala with fluffy basmati rice or fragrant jeera rice, as they soak up the sauce perfectly. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add a side of garlic naan or a fresh cucumber salad for a cool contrast. Sometimes, I even roast some veggies to keep things balanced and tasty.
Rice Options
Ever wondered what’s the perfect rice to pair with your Chicken Tikka Masala? I’ve found that basmati rice works wonders—its fragrant, long grains complement the spices in the dish without overpowering them. Jasmine rice is another favorite of mine; its slightly sticky texture helps soak up all that delicious masala sauce. Sometimes, I even mix in a bit of turmeric and peas for a quick pulao-style rice that adds color and flavor. Brown rice can be a healthier option, but it’s the simplicity and fluffiness of plain white rice that usually hits the spot for me.
Side Dishes
When serving Chicken Tikka Masala, it’s easy to get caught up in the main dish, but pairing it with the right sides can take the meal to the next level. I love fluffy basmati rice to soak up the rich sauce, but don’t stop there. Garlic naan is a must—it’s perfect for scooping up every last bite. A crisp cucumber salad adds freshness, while roasted veggies like cauliflower or bell peppers bring depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a cooling raita or tangy mango chutney. These sides balance the spices and make the meal feel complete. Trust me, they’re game-changers!
