Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe – Creamy & Flavorful Indian Classic

If there’s one dish that has captured hearts across the globe, it’s the Chicken Tikka Masala. With its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and smoky, spiced chicken pieces, this dish is a perfect blend of flavor and aroma. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a weekend treat, or a special occasion, this recipe will guide you to make an authentic restaurant-style chicken tikka masala at home.

Ingredients for Chicken Tikka

For the Marinade:

• 500g boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• ½ cup thick yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste

For the Curry:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tomatoes (pureed)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 cup fresh cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt.
• Add chicken cubes and coat well.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (overnight gives the best flavor).

2. Grill or Roast the Chicken

• Preheat oven to 200°C (or use a grill pan).
• Arrange marinated chicken pieces on a tray and roast for 15–20 minutes until slightly charred.
• Alternatively, pan-fry until golden brown. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Curry Base

• Heat oil and butter in a pan.
• Add cumin seeds, let them crackle, then add chopped onions. Sauté until golden brown.
• Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
• Add pureed tomatoes, turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates.

4. Add Cream & Chicken

• Stir in the cream and mix well.
• Add roasted chicken tikka pieces to the sauce.
• Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
• Sprinkle garam masala, mix, and turn off the heat.

5. Garnish & Serve

• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
• Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Tikka Masala

• Use Kashmiri red chili powder for a vibrant color without too much heat.
• Char the chicken slightly for a smoky, authentic taste.
• You can replace cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Tikka Masala pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Naan
• Jeera Rice
• Paratha
• A side of Masala Raita for cooling balance.

Related Recipes You Might Love

If you enjoy this recipe, you’ll love exploring more flavorful Indian dishes from our collection:

• Try our Mutton Korma Recipe for another royal Mughlai classic.
• Check out our Shrimp Tikka Masala Recipe for a seafood twist on the same flavors.
• For a lighter option, pair with our refreshing Masala Raita Recipe.