Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Introduction
Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most iconic and widely loved Indian dishes across the globe. Known for its smoky grilled chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy, tomato-based gravy, this dish perfectly balances bold spices with smooth textures. Whether served at Indian restaurants or prepared at home for special occasions, Chicken Tikka Masala has earned its place as a comfort food with a royal touch. Pair it with butter naan, garlic naan, or fragrant basmati rice, and you have a meal that never fails to impress.
In this recipe, you will learn how to make authentic, restaurant-style Chicken Tikka Masala at home using simple ingredients and easy step-by-step instructions. The method includes marinating and grilling the chicken for that signature smoky flavor, followed by a luscious masala gravy that ties everything together beautifully.
What Is Chicken Tikka Masala?
Chicken Tikka Masala is made by first marinating boneless chicken in yogurt and spices, then grilling or pan-roasting it to create chicken tikka. These cooked chicken pieces are later added to a mildly spicy, creamy tomato-based gravy enriched with butter, cashews, and fresh cream. The result is a dish that is flavorful yet balanced, making it suitable even for those who prefer moderate spice levels.
Ingredients
For Chicken Tikka (Marination)
-
500 grams boneless chicken (cut into medium cubes)
-
½ cup thick yogurt
-
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
-
1 teaspoon red chilli powder
-
1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chilli powder
-
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
-
1 teaspoon coriander powder
-
1 teaspoon garam masala
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
1 tablespoon oil (mustard oil preferred)
-
Salt to taste
For Masala Gravy
-
2 tablespoons butter
-
1 tablespoon oil
-
2 medium onions (finely chopped)
-
3 medium tomatoes (pureed)
-
12–15 cashews (soaked and ground to paste)
-
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
-
1 teaspoon red chilli powder
-
1 teaspoon coriander powder
-
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
-
1 teaspoon garam masala
-
½ cup fresh cream
-
Salt to taste
-
½ cup water
-
1 teaspoon crushed kasuri methi
-
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
How to Make Chicken Tikka
-
In a large mixing bowl, add yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chilli powder, Kashmiri chilli powder, turmeric, coriander powder, garam masala, lemon juice, oil, and salt.
-
Mix everything well to form a smooth marinade.
-
Add the chicken pieces and coat them evenly with the marinade.
-
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For best flavor, marinate for 4–6 hours.
-
Heat a grill pan, oven, or tandoor. Cook the marinated chicken until it is well-cooked, slightly charred, and smoky.
-
Once done, keep the chicken tikka aside.
Tip: For a smoky restaurant-style flavor, give a coal smoke (dhungar) at this stage.
How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala Gravy
-
Heat butter and oil together in a deep pan or kadhai.
-
Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
-
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
-
Pour in the tomato puree and cook on medium heat until the oil separates.
-
Add cashew paste, red chilli powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2–3 minutes.
-
Add water and let the gravy simmer for 5–7 minutes until thick and creamy.
-
Now add the prepared chicken tikka pieces and gently mix.
-
Cook on low heat for another 5 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.
-
Stir in fresh cream and crushed kasuri methi.
-
Sprinkle garam masala, mix gently, and turn off the heat.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Tikka Masala tastes best when served hot with:
-
Butter naan
-
Garlic naan
-
Tandoori roti
-
Jeera rice
-
Plain basmati rice
Garnish with fresh coriander and a swirl of cream for a restaurant-style presentation.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala
-
Always use thick yogurt for marination to avoid watery chicken.
-
Kashmiri red chilli powder gives great color without excessive heat.
-
Cashew paste adds richness; do not skip it.
-
Cook the gravy slowly to enhance flavor depth.
-
Butter and cream are key to achieving authentic taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with homemade comfort. The smoky chicken, creamy gravy, and perfectly balanced spices make it ideal for family dinners, festive meals, and weekend treats. It is rich without being overpowering and spicy without being harsh.
Conclusion
Chicken Tikka Masala is more than just a curry—it’s an experience of flavors, textures, and aromas. With this detailed recipe, you can recreate the classic restaurant-style dish right in your kitchen. Whether you are cooking for guests or indulging yourself, this Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite on your dining table.
Leave a Reply