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Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish that is loved by people all over the world. This delicious and spicy recipe is made with marinated chicken pieces that are grilled and then cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce. It is typically served with rice or naan bread, and is a favorite dish for special occasions or family dinners. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step recipe for making Chicken Tikka Masala at home.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
1/2 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Masala Sauce:
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger
1 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Directions:
For the Chicken Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat in the marinade.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
For the Chicken Tikka:
Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
For the Masala Sauce:
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for an additional minute.
Add the tomato paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the spices are fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes to the pan and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
To Assemble:
Remove the chicken from the skewers and add it to the Masala sauce.
Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve hot with rice or naan bread and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for special occasions or family dinners. It's creamy, spicy, and