Delicious Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular dish that originated in Indian cuisine. However, it is interesting to note that it is actually a British invention. In this blog, we will provide you with an easy-to-follow recipe that will give you a restaurant-style flavour. By using a combination of spices, creamy gravy, and tender chicken, you can create a mouthwatering Chicken Tikka Masala right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

1. Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: 600g

2. Coriander powder

3. Kashmiri red chili powder

4. Roasted cumin powder

5. Turmeric

6. Garam masala

7. Ginger-garlic paste

8. Thick yogurt

9. Dried fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi)

10. Onions

11. Green chilies

12. Fresh coriander (cilantro)

13. Fresh cream

14. Tomato puree

15. Butter

16. Lemon

17. Salt to taste

18. Oil for marinating and cooking

Marinating the chicken:

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

2. In a bowl, combine coriander powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, roasted cumin powder, turmeric, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, thick yogurt, salt, lemon juice, and a little oil.

3. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with the marinade.

4. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight for the best flavor.

Preparing the Gravy:

1. Finely chop onions and slit green chilies.

2. Heat oil and butter in a pan.

3. Fry onions until light brown.

4. Add green chilies and ginger-garlic paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes.

5. Add your ground spices and fry until aromatic.

6. Stir in tomato puree and some water; let it simmer.

Grilling the Chicken:

1. Place the marinated chicken on a parchment-lined baking tray.

2. Grill at 240°C for 5 to 7 minutes until slightly charred and cooked.

3. Alternatively, use an air-fryer or pan-fry the chicken.

Combining Chicken and Gravy:

1. Add salt and cream to the simmering gravy.

2. Introduce the grilled chicken pieces, including any accumulated juices.

3. Simmer together for another 5 minutes to meld flavors.

Garnishing and serving:

1. Garnish the prepared chicken tikka masala with fresh coriander.

2. Serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice.

FAQs:

1. Chicken Breast Alternative: You can use chicken breast, but be cautious with cooking time to avoid dryness.

2. Tomato Puree Substitute: Canned or fresh tomatoes can replace tomato puree.

3. Adjusting Spiciness: Increase green chilies or Kashmiri red chili powder for more heat.

4. Advance Preparation: Prepare chicken tikka ahead and refrigerate. Reheat with gravy when ready to serve.

Marinating the chicken

To start, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix together coriander powder, Kashmiri red chilli powder, roasted cumin powder, turmeric, garam masala, ginger garlic paste, thick yogurt, salt, lemon, and oil. Coat the chicken pieces with this marinade mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, you can marinate the chicken overnight.

Preparing the Gravy

While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the gravy. Chop the onions into fine pieces and slit the green chilies. In a pan, heat some oil and butter. Add the onions and fry them until they turn light brown. Then, add the green chilies and ginger-garlic paste. Fry for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell the aroma of the fried garlic. Add the spices and fry for a couple of minutes until the raw aroma disappears. Finally, add the tomato puree and some water. Let the gravy simmer.

Grilling the chicken

Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Grill the chicken at 240°C for 5 to 7 minutes until they are slightly charred and cooked through. Alternatively, you can air-fry or pan-fry the chicken.

Bringing It All Together

Add salt and cream to the gravy, and let it simmer for a few more minutes. Then, add the grilled chicken pieces along with any juices that may have accumulated. Let the chicken and gravy simmer together for another 5 minutes. The chicken will soak up all the delicious flavours of the gravy.

Garnish and enjoy.

Your chicken tikka masala is now ready to be enjoyed. Garnish it with some fresh coriander, and serve it with naan bread or steamed rice. The creamy gravy, tender chicken, and aromatic spices will surely satisfy your taste buds.

FAQ

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. However, be careful not to overcook them, as they can easily become dry.

2. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato puree?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes instead of tomato puree. Adjust the quantity according to your preferences.

3. Can I make the gravy spicier?

If you prefer a spicier Chicken Tikka Masala, you can add more green chillies or increase the quantity of Kashmiri red chilli powder in the spice mix.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make the chicken tikka in advance and keep it refrigerated. When you are ready to serve, heat the gravy and add the pre-cooked chicken. Simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through.

Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful dish that brings together the flavours of India and Britain. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a restaurant-style chicken tikka masala in your own kitchen. The tender chicken, creamy gravy, and aromatic spices will transport your taste buds to a world of culinary delight. Give it a try and enjoy this delicious dish with your family and friends!