From Scratch: The Easy Way To Make Chicken Tikka Masala

Embark on a tantalizing culinary adventure as we delve into the secrets of crafting the beloved Indian dish, Chicken Tikka Masala, from scratch. This aromatic and flavorful dish, known for its tender chicken marinated in spices and simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, is a staple of Indian cuisine and a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide.

Ingredients:

#For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

#For the Tikka Masala Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 (28-ounce) can of whole tomatoes with their juices
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

2. Grill or Pan-Sear the Chicken:

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through. Alternatively, you can pan-sear the chicken in a large skillet with a little oil until browned on all sides.

3. Prepare the Tikka Masala Sauce:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

4. Add the Tomatoes:

Pour in the whole tomatoes with their juices and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and the sauce has thickened slightly.

5. Blend the Sauce:

Using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree the sauce until smooth. Return the sauce to the pot and bring to a simmer.

6. Add the Chicken and Cream:

Add the grilled or pan-seared chicken to the sauce and stir to combine. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce back to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened.

7. Finish with Butter:

Stir in the butter and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with rice, naan bread, or your favorite side dish.

Tips:

• For a more flavorful marinade, use a combination of plain yogurt and buttermilk.
• If you don’t have skewers, you can also grill the chicken directly on the grates.
• To make the sauce ahead of time, prepare it up to step 5 and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add the chicken.
• For a spicier dish, add more chili powder or red pepper flakes to the marinade or sauce.

Variations:

• Chicken Tikka Masala with Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, and peas to the sauce for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Tikka Masala with Other Proteins: Instead of chicken, you can use lamb, shrimp, or paneer (Indian cheese) for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan Tikka Masala: Use plant-based yogurt, soy cream, and tofu or tempeh for a vegan version of this classic dish.

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You have now mastered the art of making Chicken Tikka Masala from scratch. This flavorful and aromatic dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Experiment with different variations and ingredients to create your own unique take on this culinary masterpiece.

FAQ:

1. Can I use different spices in the marinade or sauce?

Yes, you can adjust the spices to your taste preferences. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cumin and coriander. For a spicier dish, add more chili powder or red pepper flakes.

2. What is the best way to serve Chicken Tikka Masala?

Traditionally, Chicken Tikka Masala is served with rice or naan bread. You can also serve it with other Indian side dishes such as raita (yogurt dip), papadum (crispy flatbread), or aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower).

3. How can I store leftover Chicken Tikka Masala?

Store leftover Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat it in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.