10 Easy Steps To Make Chicken Tikka Masala Pakistani Style – A Must-try Recipe!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Pakistani cuisine with this delectable guide on how to make chicken tikka masala, a beloved dish renowned for its aromatic spices and creamy tomato sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste

For the Masala Sauce:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Grill the Chicken:

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
3. Grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred.

Make the Masala Sauce:

1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, sauté the onion in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Add the heavy cream and salt to taste.

Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

1. Add the grilled chicken to the masala sauce.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken tikka masala with rice, naan bread, or parathas. Garnish with fresh cilantro, onions, and lemon wedges.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
• Spicy: Increase the amount of red chili powder in both the marinade and the masala sauce.
• Creamy: Add more heavy cream or yogurt to the masala sauce for a richer flavor.
• Tangy: Add a squeeze of lime juice or tamarind paste to the masala sauce for a tangy twist.

Tips

• Use a good quality yogurt for the marinade to tenderize the chicken.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry and tough.
• Adjust the spices to your taste preferences.
• Serve chicken tikka masala immediately for the best flavor.

The Magic of Pakistani Cuisine

Chicken tikka masala is just one example of the vibrant flavors found in Pakistani cuisine. From aromatic curries to tantalizing kebabs, Pakistani food is a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds.

Conclusion: A Culinary Journey to Pakistan

Embark on a culinary adventure with this authentic recipe for chicken tikka masala Pakistani style. Experience the rich spices, creamy texture, and tantalizing aromas that define this beloved dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this guide will empower you to create a masterpiece that will transport your palate to the heart of Pakistan.

FAQs

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. Thighs will be slightly more flavorful and tender.

Q: What is the best way to grill the chicken?
A: You can grill the chicken on an outdoor grill or a grill pan. If using a grill pan, make sure it’s well-seasoned and preheated before adding the chicken.

Q: Can I make the masala sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the masala sauce up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, reheat the sauce over medium heat.

Q: What is the difference between chicken tikka masala and butter chicken?
A: Chicken tikka masala is made with a tomato-based sauce, while butter chicken is made with a creamy tomato-based sauce. Chicken tikka masala also typically has more spices than butter chicken.

Q: What are some other Pakistani dishes I can try?
A: Some other popular Pakistani dishes include biryani, nihari, haleem, and kheer.