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Combining the savory, spicy flavors of Indian cuisine with the convenience of Mediterranean pita bread, the Chicken Tikka Masala Pita sandwich is a fusion dish that brings the best of both worlds into your kitchen. This easy-to-follow guide will walk you through the steps to create this mouthwatering meal, promising a culinary adventure that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, ensure you have the following ingredients:
- 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (for marinade)
- 2 tablespoons Tikka Masala paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) of diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 pita breads
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Extra yogurt for serving
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
1. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of Greek yogurt, Tikka Masala paste, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensure they’re well-coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Cooking the Chicken
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess. Grill the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Set aside and keep warm.
Preparing the Sauce
3. While the chicken is cooking, heat a large pan over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the tomatoes have broken down. Add the grilled chicken pieces to the pan, pour in the heavy cream, and let the mixture simmer for another 5-10 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Serving
4. Warm the pita breads in the oven or on a skillet. Slice open one side of each pita to form a pocket. Spoon the chicken tikka masala into each pita pocket. Drizzle with a bit of yogurt and sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top. Serve immediately for a delicious fusion meal.
Key Takeaways
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
- Tikka Masala paste can be adjusted according to taste preference for spice levels.
- Using Greek yogurt in the marinade and as a topping adds creaminess and balances the spices in the dish.
- This recipe can be easily customized with additional vegetables or substitutions to suit dietary needs.
- The fusion of Indian and Mediterranean cuisines offers a unique and delicious experience with every bite.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can easily be substituted for breasts. They’re more flavorful and remain juicy when cooked.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Just replace the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut yogurt, and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for the sauce.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Chicken Tikka Masala Pita, substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu. Ensure to press the tofu before marinating for best texture.
What sides go well with Chicken Tikka Masala Pita?
Traditional Indian sides like basmati rice or naan bread complement this dish well. For a lighter option, a fresh cucumber salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil makes an excellent side.
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