tikka masala recipe

Tikka Masala Recipe

This flavorful tikka masala recipe combines tender marinated chicken, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato-based sauce for a restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether you’re searching for a chicken tikka masala recipe, an authentic tikka masala recipe, or an easy weeknight dinner, this dish delivers bold Indian-inspired flavors with a creamy, satisfying texture. Serve it with steamed rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal. Discover more flavorful recipes like Tikka Masala Recipe right here.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1½ pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)

For the Tikka Masala Sauce

  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup tomato paste
  • 4 cloves garlic, grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (13 ounces) coconut milk
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Place the chicken in a large bowl and drizzle with vegetable oil.
  2. In a small bowl, combine salt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and cardamom.
  3. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
  4. Heat ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  6. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cut into bite-sized pieces once slightly cooled.
  7. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
  8. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until slightly caramelized.
  9. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  10. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  11. Add the coconut milk and chicken broth, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  12. Reduce the heat and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  13. Return the chicken to the sauce and add cilantro and red pepper flakes.
  14. Simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  15. Season with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
  16. Serve hot with rice or naan.

Preparation Details

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 625 per serving

This easy chicken tikka masala recipe uses coconut milk for a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that balances the warm spices beautifully. You can also adapt this recipe into a paneer tikka masala recipe, tofu tikka masala recipe, or chickpea tikka masala recipe for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a richer sauce, substitute heavy cream for the coconut milk while maintaining the authentic flavor of this classic tikka masala recipe.