Serving Details
- Serves: 4
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Recipe Description
Chicken Tikka Masala from The Cook Book is a beloved Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken marinated in spices, cooked in a creamy, fragrant tomato sauce. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of spice and creaminess for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Ingredients
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts or thighs (cut into chunks): 600g
- Plain yogurt: 150g
- Garlic cloves: 3, minced
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
- Garam masala: 2 tsp
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Ground coriander: 1 tsp
- Turmeric: ½ tsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Tomato purée: 3 tbsp
- Chopped tomatoes (canned): 400g
- Double cream or coconut milk: 150ml
- Vegetable oil or ghee: 2 tbsp
- Fresh coriander: For garnish
- Salt: To taste
Method
- In a bowl, combine the yogurt, half the garlic, half the ginger, 1 tsp garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Add the chicken pieces, mix well, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
- Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and golden.
- Add the remaining garlic and ginger, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato purée and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add chopped tomatoes and remaining garam masala, simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Meanwhile, grill or pan-fry the marinated chicken pieces until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, stir in cream or coconut milk, and simmer for 5-10 minutes to combine flavors.
- Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh coriander before serving.
- Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use coconut milk instead of cream.
Is it spicy?
The heat can be adjusted by reducing chili powder or removing seeds.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
What sides work best?
Serve with steamed basmati rice, naan bread, and a side of cucumber raita or salad.
