Print

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe Easy Homemade Indian Curry Guide

chicken tikka masala recipe - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy homemade Indian curry featuring tender marinated chicken in a creamy, smoky, and flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with authentic taste.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ¾ cup plain yogurt (Greek-style preferred)
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for dairy-free)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, garam masala, cumin, paprika, coriander, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and salt. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4–6 hours.
  2. Preheat oven to 425°F. Arrange marinated chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, cook chicken in a hot grill pan over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side. Set aside.
  3. Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden and soft.
  4. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder into the skillet. Stir constantly and toast spices for about 30 seconds.
  6. Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir well. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until sauce thickens and oil starts to separate.
  7. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream or coconut cream. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
  8. Add cooked chicken pieces to the sauce and stir to coat. Warm through for 3–5 minutes.
  9. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour for best flavor; 4–6 hours or overnight is ideal. Use chicken thighs for juicier meat. Toast spices briefly to enhance aroma. Simmer sauce until oil separates for perfect texture. Adjust chili powder for desired spice level. Add water or cream if sauce is too thick. Reheat gently to avoid curdling.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken tikka masala, Indian curry, homemade curry, easy chicken recipe, creamy tomato sauce, Indian spices, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/chicken-tikka-masala-recipe-easy-homemade-indian-curry-guide/