The Ultimate Chicken Tikka Masala with Yogurt Sauce Recipe

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Indulge in the rich flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala, an iconic dish beloved by food enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its creamy, aromatic sauce and tender grilled chicken pieces, this recipe takes you on a culinary journey to the heart of Indian cuisine. Combine it with our special Yogurt Sauce for an unforgettable dining experience. Let’s explore the steps to create this masterpiece.

Ingredients:

  • For Chicken Marinade:

    • 1 kg chicken breast, cut into chunks

    • 1 cup plain yogurt

    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

    • 2 teaspoons cumin

    • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

    • 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper

    • 2 teaspoons black pepper

    • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

    • Salt to taste

  • For the Sauce:

    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

    • 2 garlic cloves, minced

    • 1 onion, finely chopped

    • 1 cup tomato puree

    • 1 cup cream

    • 2 teaspoons paprika

    • 1 teaspoon garam masala

    • Salt to taste

    • Fresh cilantro for garnish

  • For the Yogurt Sauce:

    • 1 cup plain yogurt

    • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped

    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

    • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, black pepper, ginger, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are thoroughly coated. Cover and marinate for at least one hour, or overnight for best results.

  2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, discarding the excess marinade. Grill the chicken until cooked through and charred in spots, about 5-7 minutes per side.

  3. Make the Sauce: While the chicken is grilling, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, cooking until soft and translucent. Stir in the tomato puree, cream, paprika, and garam masala. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens. Add the grilled chicken to the sauce and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

  4. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the yogurt, mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

  5. Serve: Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Accompany with the Yogurt Sauce on the side for a delicious contrast of flavors.

Key Takeaways:

  • Marination Time: For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to enhance its flavors and tenderness.

  • Sauce Consistency: Simmer the sauce until it reaches your preferred consistency. For a richer sauce, add more cream as desired.

  • Yogurt Sauce: The refreshing Yogurt Sauce balances the spicy and creamy Chicken Tikka Masala, adding a delightful freshness to the dish.

  • Serving Suggestion: Serve with steamed basmati rice, naan bread, or your favorite Indian bread for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used and will add more flavor due to their higher fat content.

Is it necessary to grill the chicken?

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the dish, but you can also broil or bake the chicken if a grill is not available.

Can I make the sauce less spicy?

Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and garam masala to suit your taste for a milder version of the dish.

How long can I store the leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat well before serving.

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