Classic Chicken Tikka Masala

Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe from India

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish known for its rich and flavorful sauce. This classic recipe combines tender chicken with a creamy tomato-based sauce that is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices. It is a favorite among many food enthusiasts for its bold flavors and comforting qualities.

History

Chicken Tikka Masala is said to have originated in the Indian subcontinent, with some claiming it was created in the UK by Indian immigrants. Regardless of its origins, this dish has become a staple in Indian cuisine and is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

2 tsp vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 lb (454 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 can (10 oz or 283 g) PATAK'S Tikka masala sauce
1 can (15 oz or 425 g) diced tomatoes
2 tbsp half-and-half

How to prepare

In a large skillet, heat the oil. Add the onion and sauté for 1 minute.
Stir in the chicken and sauté until the meat is lightly browned.
Add PATAK'S Tikka masala Sauce and diced tomatoes.
Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Stir in the half-and-half just before serving.
Serve with rice, chapatti, or tortillas. Serves 4.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or potatoes for a more hearty dish.
Experiment with different spice blends to create a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices before cooking can help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

- Adjust the level of spice in the dish by adding more or less chili powder or red pepper flakes.

- For a richer sauce, you can add a dollop of cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.

- Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Tikka Masala with steamed rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete meal.

- Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced onions, and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions until they are soft and translucent to build a flavorful base for the sauce.

- Simmer the chicken in the sauce to allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use coconut milk or heavy cream instead of half-and-half for a creamier sauce.

- Substitute the PATAK'S Tikka masala sauce with homemade or store-bought curry paste.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the chicken in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

- Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Tikka Masala in a shallow bowl with a side of rice and garnish with fresh herbs. - Arrange the dish on a platter with naan bread and pickled vegetables for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Tikka Masala with a refreshing cucumber raita or a side of pickled onions to balance out the richness of the dish.

- Serve with a light and crisp white wine or a cold beer to complement the bold flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

280 per serving

Carbohydrates

18g per serving

Fats

10g per serving

Proteins

28g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C, Iron, and Calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (half-and-half) and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Tikka Masala is a classic Indian dish that is loved for its bold flavors and comforting qualities. This recipe combines tender chicken with a creamy tomato-based sauce that is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices. Serve with rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a cold winter evening, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, a bold title caught my eye: Classic Chicken Tikka Masala.

I had never heard of this dish before, but the description sounded absolutely mouth-watering. Tender pieces of chicken marinated in a rich blend of spices and yogurt, then grilled to perfection and simmered in a creamy tomato sauce. It sounded like the perfect comfort food for a chilly night.

I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients I would need. The recipe called for a mix of exotic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, as well as fresh ginger and garlic. I was lucky to have most of these ingredients on hand, as I loved experimenting with new flavors in my cooking.

As I chopped and diced, the kitchen filled with the fragrant aroma of the spices. I could already tell that this dish was going to be something special. The marinade came together easily, and I let the chicken soak in it for a few hours to really absorb all the flavors.

When it came time to cook the chicken, I decided to grill it on my stovetop grill pan. The sizzle of the meat as it hit the hot surface was music to my ears. I watched as the chicken turned a beautiful golden brown, the spices forming a crust on the outside that promised a burst of flavor with each bite.

While the chicken cooked, I turned my attention to the tomato sauce. I sautéed onions and garlic until they were soft and translucent, then added a can of diced tomatoes and a generous dollop of cream. The sauce bubbled and thickened, the vibrant red color deepening as it simmered.

Finally, it was time to combine the chicken and the sauce. I gently folded the pieces of grilled chicken into the creamy tomato mixture, letting them simmer together for a few minutes to meld the flavors. The aroma that wafted from the pan was heavenly, a tantalizing mix of spices and richness that made my mouth water.

I couldn't wait to dig in. I spooned the chicken tikka masala over a bed of fluffy basmati rice and took my first bite. The flavors exploded on my tongue, a perfect balance of heat and creaminess, savory and sweet. It was everything I had hoped for and more.

As I savored each bite, I thought back to the origins of this recipe. I had learned it from a dear friend who had traveled to India and brought back a love for the country's cuisine. She had shared the recipe with me, knowing how much I enjoyed trying new dishes in my own kitchen.

I was grateful for her generosity, and for the opportunity to add this delicious recipe to my repertoire. It quickly became a favorite in my household, requested time and time again by family and friends who couldn't get enough of its bold, complex flavors.

And so, my journey with Classic Chicken Tikka Masala began. It was a dish that brought warmth and comfort to my table, a taste of far-off lands that never failed to satisfy. I continued to make it over the years, tweaking and perfecting the recipe until it was just right.

As I sat at the table, savoring the last few bites of my meal, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart. It was more than just a dish - it was a memory, a connection to the past and a promise of future culinary adventures.

And so, with a contented sigh, I cleared the plates and began to plan my next culinary experiment. Who knew what delicious surprises awaited me in the pages of my cookbook, ready to be discovered and shared with those I loved? The possibilities were endless, and I couldn't wait to dive in.