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If you’re a fan of the rich, creamy, and utterly delectable Chicken Tikka Masala but find yourself craving an extra kick of spice, incorporating green chili paste might just be the game-changer you need. This guide will take you through the steps to create a tantalizing version of this beloved dish, ensuring that it packs both flavor and heat.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup yogurt (for marinating)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tbsp garam masala
- 2 tbsp ground cumin
- 3 tbsp green chili paste, adjust to taste
- 3 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric powder, one tablespoon of garam masala, and one tablespoon of cumin. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, preferably overnight.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces, cooking until lightly browned on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add the remaining oil, onion, garlic, and ginger. Sautรฉ until the onions are soft and golden. Stir in the green chili paste, remaining garam masala, and cumin, cooking for another minute or two.
- Add Tomato Puree: Pour in the tomato puree, bring to a simmer, and let it cook for around 20 minutes until thickened. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little water to reach your preferred consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, mixing well with the sauce. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes so the chicken can soak up all the flavors.
- Add Cream: Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust the salt to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish your Chicken Tikka Masala with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread for a delicious meal.
Key Takeaways:
- Green chili paste can significantly enhance the flavor and spice level of your Chicken Tikka Masala.
- Marinating the chicken overnight will infuse it with more flavor and tenderize it.
- Adjust the amount of green chili paste based on your spice tolerance.
- Serving with either rice or naan bread complements the dish and helps balance the spice.
FAQs:
Can I use canned green chilis to make the paste?
Yes, you can use canned green chilis to make the paste. Blend them with a little water to achieve a smooth consistency.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream?
For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream or a high-fat plant-based cream. These alternatives also add a unique flavor to the dish.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Masala?
Yes, Chicken Tikka Masala freezes well. Cool the dish completely and store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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