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Chicken Tikka Masala





Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Description

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular dish that perfectly blends marinated, grilled chicken with a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. Its rich flavors and enticing aroma make it a favorite in Indian cuisine. This recipe will guide you through making an authentic Chicken Tikka Masala, showcasing the intricate balance of spices and the luscious texture that makes this dish so beloved.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece ginger, minced

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece ginger, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions Step-by-Step for Making Chicken Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    • In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, salt, garlic, and ginger. Mix well.
  2. Marinate the Chicken:
    • Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken deeply.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Grill the Chicken:
    • Preheat your grill or broiler. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a hot oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Set Aside:
    • Once the chicken is cooked, set it aside. The charred edges add a lovely smoky flavor to the final dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Cook the Aromatics:
    • In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
  2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
    • Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Spice It Up:
    • Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook the spices for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  4. Add Tomato Puree:
    • Pour in the tomato puree, mixing well to combine with the spices and aromatics. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

  1. Mix in the Chicken:
    • Add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring to coat them evenly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
  2. Stir in Cream:
    • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes, making sure the sauce is well blended and creamy.
  3. Garnish:
    • If desired, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Serve Hot:
    • Serve your Chicken Tikka Masala hot, accompanied by steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and spicy flavors of this delightful dish.

Tips and Variations for Chicken Tikka Masala

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Tikka Masala

  • Use Fresh Spices:
    • Fresh spices make a significant difference in the flavor of the dish. If possible, grind your own spices for the most vibrant taste.
  • Marinate Longer:
    • The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Overnight marination is ideal.
  • Adjust Spice Levels:
    • Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder. You can also add fresh chilies for an extra kick.

Variations

  • Vegetarian Tikka Masala:
    • Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or a mix of vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, and potatoes.
  • Healthier Version:
    • Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
  • Coconut Tikka Masala:
    • Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version with a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour (plus marinating time)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Curiosities and Historical Facts about Chicken Tikka Masala

Origins of Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is widely regarded as a British invention, although its roots lie in Indian cuisine. It is believed to have been created in the 1960s by Bangladeshi chefs working in British curry houses. The dish was developed to cater to British tastes, combining the flavors of Indian spices with a creamy tomato-based sauce.

Chicken Tikka Masala in Popular Culture

This dish has become a symbol of cultural integration, representing the blending of Indian and British culinary traditions. It’s so beloved in the UK that it was famously declared a “true British national dish” by then-Foreign Secretary Robin Cook in 2001.

Fun Facts

  • Popularity:
    • Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most popular dishes in British Indian restaurants.
  • Variations:
    • There are countless variations of Chicken Tikka Masala, with different chefs adding their unique twists to the recipe.
  • Cultural Impact:
    • The dish has inspired numerous adaptations and variations worldwide, influencing other cuisines and becoming a global favorite.

The Science Behind the Recipe

The key to a great Chicken Tikka Masala lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with spices, while grilling or broiling adds a smoky, charred flavor. The sauce, with its combination of spices, tomato puree, and cream, creates a rich and satisfying dish that appeals to a wide range of palates.