Chicken tikka masala is a classic dish loved worldwide for its rich, creamy sauce and spicy flavors. Tender pieces of chicken are first marinated in yogurt and spices and then roasted or fried before being combined with a tomato cream sauce full of garam masala, turmeric, cumin and coriander. This dish is ideal for a flavorful evening meal and pairs perfectly with rice or naan. Chicken tikka masala is not only a favorite in Indian restaurants, but also easy to make at home. The dish offers comfort food feel, warmth and a perfect balance of spicy, sweet and savory - exactly what every home cook is looking for. Serve it with fresh naans according to this recipe.
Chicken tikka masala
25 minutes
Average
What is tikka masala?
Tikka masala is an Indian dish that consists of pieces of marinated chicken (tikka) in a creamy, spicy sauce (masala). Although often thought of as authentic Indian food, tikka masala originated in the United Kingdom and became popular in British Indian cuisine. The dish combines traditional Indian spices with a creamy, slightly sweet sauce to enhance the flavors of roasted chicken. The name "tikka" literally means "pieces" and "masala" refers to the blend of spices that makes the sauce so rich and aromatic. Chicken tikka masala is one of the most famous Indian dishes worldwide and is known for its accessibility to people who like spicy comfort food without being overly spicy.
What does chicken tikka masala taste like?
Chicken tikka masala has a deep, complex flavor thanks to the combination of roasted chicken and creamy, spicy sauce. The yogurt marinade makes the chicken tender and juicy, while spices such as garam masala and turmeric give it a warm, aromatic base. The tomato sauce adds a slightly sweet and creamy touch that balances it all out. Thus, you taste spicy, savory and slightly sweet notes at the same time. The dish is often served with fresh cilantro and lime for added freshness.
More recipes with chicken
Looking for more recipes with chicken? How about pearl couscous with chicken and green asparagus or this pasta bake with chicken and eggplant?
What you need:
2
250 gr chicken disc fillet
2 tbsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric
100 gr yogurt or cottage cheese
salt and pepper
1 shallot
2 peppers
200 ml tomato passata
100 ml coconut milk
2 naan according to the recipe from the introduction
or cook 50 gr rice per person
bunch of fresh coriander
What to do:
1
Put the chicken in a bowl and add half the garam masala, turmeric, yogurt and some salt and pepper. Mix together and let stand for 10 minutes.
2
Cut the bell bell pepper into strips and chop the shallot. If necessary, cook the rice in a pan of water until tender if you are using rice instead of naan.
3
Heat some olive oil in a pan and add the chicken. Fry until golden brown. Then add the shallot and bell bell pepper and fry for about 5 minutes. Then add the passata and coconut milk along with the remaining garam masala and some salt and pepper. Mix well and let this simmer for about 5-10 minutes.
4
Divide the chicken tikka masala among the plates and serve with the naan or rice. Garnish with some pepper and cilantro.
