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If your taste buds are craving something rich, flavorful, and utterly comforting, the Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is your perfect go-to dish. This beloved Indian-inspired classic brings together tender chicken thighs marinated in fragrant spices and yogurt, simmered in a luscious, silky tomato-based sauce that’s bursting with warming aromas and vibrant color. It’s creamy yet spiced just right, making every bite feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe proves that homemade Indian food can be simple, satisfying, and absolutely addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right for the Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is key to unlocking its true potential. Each component is simple but essential, building layers of flavor, texture, and that signature creamy, spicy depth that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Chicken thigh, 600g (boneless, skinless): Juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing spices while staying moist during cooking.
- Plain yoghurt, 1/2 cup (full fat recommended): Acts as a marinade base to tenderize and impart tanginess.
- Garlic, 6 cloves minced: Adds aromatic depth and slight pungency, a key element in the masala base.
- Fresh ginger, 2 tbsp grated (divided): Brings its warm, slightly spicy zing to both marinade and sauce.
- Garam masala, 2 tsp total: The essential fragrant spice blend that defines tikka masala’s character.
- Salt, 2 tsp: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- Cumin, 2 tsp ground: Adds warmth and a slightly nutty flavor that balances the sauce.
- Ground coriander, 2 tsp: Contributes citrusy, floral notes to brighten the dish.
- Paprika (sweet), 2 tbsp: Gives rich color and mild sweetness to the sauce.
- Vegetable oil, multiple tablespoons: For cooking the chicken marinade and sautéing the base ingredients smoothly.
- Cayenne pepper, optional pinch: Adjust for gentle heat to suit your palate.
- Lemon juice, 2 tsp: Adds a fresh, zesty brightness to the chicken marinade.
- Turmeric, 2 tsp: Adds that lovely golden hue and subtle earthy flavor.
- Cardamom powder, a pinch: A delicate fragrant touch that elevates the spice profile.
- Unsalted butter or ghee, 80g total: Enriches the sauce with creamy, luscious mouthfeel.
- Onion, 1 finely chopped: The sweet base that deepens flavor complexity when cooked down.
- Tomato passata, 400 ml: Provides the smooth, tangy tomato foundation of the sauce.
- Water, 400 ml: Used to adjust sauce consistency while building flavor.
- Cream, 100 ml (thickened or pure): The final touch for the signature creamy texture and rich taste.
- Sugar, 1 tsp: Balances acidity and enhances all the rich flavors.
- Basmati rice: The ideal fluffy accompaniment to soak up the spicy, creamy sauce.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
Start by combining the yogurt, 1 tbsp grated ginger, minced garlic, 1 tsp each of garam masala, salt, cumin, coriander, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper in a bowl. Add 2 tsp lemon juice for a bright zing. Toss the chicken cubes in this marinade ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or better yet, a few hours in the fridge. This step tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with bold, aromatic flavors that hint at the deliciousness to come.
Step 2: Preparing the Spiced Base
Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil with 30g butter or ghee in a large pan. Add the finely chopped onion and cook over medium heat until soft and golden, about 10 minutes. Stir in the remaining garlic and 1 tbsp ginger, cooking until fragrant. Now add turmeric, the rest of the garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, cardamom, and cayenne. Toast these spices gently to release their essential oils—this is where magic happens; your kitchen will smell like a bustling Indian spice market!
Step 3: Cooking the Chicken
Push the spice mixture to the side and pour in the marinated chicken, searing on all sides until it starts caramelizing and seasoning blends beautifully with the meat. This caramelization locks in flavor and delivers that signature depth in every bite. Pour in the tomato passata and water, stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows the sauce to thicken, richening the massage of spices and tender chicken pieces.
Step 4: Finishing the Creamy Sauce
When the chicken is tender and sauce has thickened, stir in the cream, 50g more butter or ghee, and sugar. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes on low heat to meld the flavors. The sauce should be velvety, luscious, and perfectly balanced – creamy, tangy, and just a little smoky from the paprika. Taste and adjust salt or spice if needed. This final step turns the dish from tasty to downright irresistible.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or coriander leaves adds a fresh herbal kick and pops of green that brighten every spoonful. For an extra touch, a dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lemon lifts the creamy warmth with cooling brightness. Toasted nuts like cashews can add an unexpected crunchy twist that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
Basmati rice is the classic sidekick here, its fluffy grains soaking up every bit of the creamy sauce perfectly. You can also serve it alongside warm, buttery naan bread or garlic roti to scoop up the rich masala. For a lighter option, steamed or roasted vegetables like spinach, peas, or cauliflower balance the richness while adding color and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dinner party twist, serve the Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe in individual mini cast iron skillets or wide shallow bowls. Layer the bottom with saffron-infused rice for a burst of color and aroma. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for elegance. You might even spoon it over roasted potatoes or polenta for a fusion-inspired bowl that intrigues and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain that fresh, robust flavor and avoid drying out. The flavors often deepen after sitting, making your next meal even more enjoyable.
Freezing
This dish is freezer-friendly too. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Freezing preserves the texture of the chicken and richness of the sauce, so you can enjoy it any day with little effort.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much. This careful reheating ensures the chicken stays tender while the creamy sauce returns to its silky consistency, just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs are preferred for their higher fat content and tenderness, which hold up better during cooking. Chicken breast is leaner and may dry out, so adjust cooking time accordingly and avoid overcooking.
Is Greek yoghurt necessary for the marinade?
Greek yogurt works best as it’s thick and creamy, providing a rich base for marinating while tenderizing the chicken. Regular plain yogurt can be used but might lead to a thinner marinade.
How spicy is this Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe?
The spice level is moderate with underlying warmth from garam masala and a gentle heat from optional cayenne pepper. You can adjust cayenne or add chili powder to suit your taste.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with paneer, tofu, or vegetables like cauliflower and potatoes, cooking them in the same flavorful sauce for a vegetarian twist on this classic.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers without drying the chicken?
Reheat slowly over low heat and add a bit of water or cream to the sauce if it becomes too thick. This keeps the chicken moist and the sauce smooth and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is one of those dishes that truly feels like a warm embrace on a plate. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, the combination of fragrant spices, tender chicken, and rich, creamy sauce brings joy to every meal. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again, sharing the love with friends and family. So, grab those ingredients and dive into a comforting world of flavor—you won’t regret it!
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Print
Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings (4-5 people)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
Chicken Tikka Masala is a richly spiced and creamy Indian-inspired dish featuring marinated chicken thighs cooked in a buttery tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices. Perfectly tender and flavorful, this recipe combines yogurt-marinated chicken with a luscious sauce, served traditionally with basmati rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 600g (1.2 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 3cm (2.2″) cubes
- 1/2 cup plain full-fat yoghurt (Greek yoghurt works well)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (~1.5 tbsp)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika (sweet, normal or smoky)
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Pinch black pepper
- 2 tsp lemon juice
Sauce
- 1–2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 2 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/8 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 3 tbsp (65 ml) vegetable oil
- 30 g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter or ghee
- 1 onion, finely chopped (brown, white or yellow)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 6 cloves garlic, crushed or grated
- 1 tbsp paprika (not smoked)
- 1 2/3 cups (400 ml) tomato passata (tomato puree)
- 1 2/3 cups (400 ml) water
- 100 ml (1/3 cup + 1 tbsp) cream (thickened or pure cream)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 50 g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter or ghee
To Serve
- Basmati rice
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken thigh cubes with 1/2 cup yoghurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, 1 tsp garam masala, salt, cumin, ground coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably longer for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the Chicken for Cooking: Heat 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they start to brown and are mostly cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, mix together turmeric, garam masala, coriander, cumin, cardamom powder, and cayenne pepper to create the dry spice blend for the sauce.
- Sauté Onions and Aromatics: In the same pan, heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil and 2 tbsp butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, salt, and cook until softened and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Then add grated ginger, crushed garlic, and paprika; cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Spices and Liquids: Stir in the prepared dry spice mix and cook for 1 minute. Then add the tomato passata and water. Mix well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Finish the Sauce and Add Chicken: Return the browned chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat. Simmer gently for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Add Cream and Butter: Stir in the cream, 1 tsp sugar, and 3 tbsp butter or ghee. Cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to become rich and creamy. Adjust salt to taste.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot with cooked basmati rice for a traditional and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for the best texture and flavor.
- Garam masala adds signature warmth and depth; use fresh if possible for better aroma.
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount or omit it depending on your spice preference.
- Marinating the chicken longer will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Use full-fat yoghurt for marinating to ensure moist and tender chicken.
- Butter can be substituted with ghee for a more authentic Indian flavor.
- Basmati rice is a traditional accompaniment but you can also serve with naan or roti.
