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A vibrant bowl of Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala with tender chicken pieces in a rich, orange-colored sauce garnished with fresh cilantro.

Famous Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

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Discover the Famous Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe, a beloved Indian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious, spice-infused creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers authentic flavors and rich textures for a satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Mix yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. Add chicken, coat thoroughly, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add remaining oil to the same skillet. Sauté onions until golden, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Add tomato puree to the skillet, cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to deepen flavor.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream or coconut cream. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour for maximum flavor; overnight is preferred for richer taste.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili powder.
  • For extra smoky flavor, add smoked paprika or grill chicken beforehand.
  • Use fresh ingredients, especially ginger and garlic, for optimal flavor.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Dairy options available

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1 1/4 cups)
  • Calories: 450 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg