Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular and delicious dish that originated in the Indian subcontinent but has gained immense popularity all over the world. It is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines chunks of chicken, known as tikka, with a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce.
The dish usually starts with marinating boneless chicken pieces in yogurt and a mixture of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala and chili powder. The marinated chicken is then grilled, roasted or baked in a tandoor (traditional clay oven) until tender and lightly charred.
Meanwhile, saute onion, garlic and ginger in oil or ghee (clarified butter) to prepare the chutney. Once the onions are caramelized and fragrant, tomato puree or chopped tomatoes are added along with a mixture of spices to create a strong and tangy flavor. The sauce is then simmered until it thickens and develops a rich consistency.
The grilled chicken tikka is added to the sauce and cooked together for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Towards the end, a touch of cream or yogurt is often added to give the dish its characteristic creamy texture. Chicken tikka masala is usually garnished with fresh coriander leaves and served with naan roti, rice or roti.
The dish offers a delightful combination of tender chicken, smoky flavors from the grilling process, and a tomato-based sauce with a hint of spice. It has become a firm favorite in many Indian restaurants and households globally, with various regional variations and adaptations.
Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or looking for new flavors, Chicken Tikka Masala is sure to satisfy your taste buds with its blend of spices and textures.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Tikka:
500g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces.
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ginger garlic paste
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
And 1 teaspoon paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder
Salt to taste
For the Masala Chutney:
2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 teaspoons ginger garlic paste
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon paprika or to Kashmiri red chili powder
1 cup tomato puree or diced tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander for garnishing
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika or cayenne powder, and salt. Mix well into make the smooth pickle.
And Add to the chicken pieces into the marinade and mix until they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If using a grill, skewer the marinated chicken. If using the oven, place the chicken pieces on a greased baking tray.
Cook the chicken until lightly charred and cooked through. If grilling, rotate the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking. If using the oven, cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Heat oil or ghee in a separate large pan over medium heat. Add chop onion and fry until to the golden brown.
Add the ginger garlic paste and cook for a minute until fragrant. Then add garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika or red chili powder, and salt. And Stir well into combine the spices with the onions.
Add in the tomato puree or chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture thickens and the tomatoes are well incorporated.
Reduce the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Simmer to the sauce for the few minutes into allow the flavors to blend.
Add the cooked chicken tikka to the sauce and mix gently to coat the chicken with the masala sauce. Cook into the another 2-3 minutes until to the chicken is heated through.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve the chicken tikka masala hot with naan roti, rice or roti.
Benefits of Chicken Tikka Masala
Protein: Chicken is a lean source of protein, and Chicken Tikka Masala provides plenty of protein per serving. Protein is the basicl for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth and maintaining the all health.
Nutritious spices: Spices used in chicken tikka masala, such as turmeric, cumin and coriander, offer various potential health benefits. Turmeric, for the example, contains curcumin, which has antioxidant and to the anti-inflammatory properties. These spices can contribute to overall wellness and are associated with potential health benefits such as improved digestion and reduced inflammation.
Vitamin C: Chicken tikka masala often includes tomato and lemon juice, both of which are good sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is important for supporting the immune system, promoting collagen production and acting as an antioxidant in the body.
Healthy fats: The addition of curd and cream to chicken tikka masala provides a source of healthy fats. Although they must be consumed in moderation, these fats can provide satiety, aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, and provide a source of energy.
A flavorful and balanced meal: Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful dish that includes protein, vegetables (onions, tomatoes) and spices. This combination can make a satisfying and balanced meal, offering a range of flavors and nutrients.