Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular and flavorful dish that originates from the Indian subcontinent. It consists of tender, marinated pieces of chicken cooked in a creamy and spiced tomato-based sauce. The dish typically features a blend of aromatic spices and herbs, resulting in a rich and satisfying flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, ground coriander, garam masala, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Enjoy with cooked rice or naan bread.