Transform Your Chicken Tikka Masala Game: How To Make It Using Paste!

Chicken tikka masala, a beloved Indian dish, tantalizes taste buds with its aromatic blend of spices and creamy tomato sauce. While many recipes require a time-consuming process of blending and grinding spices, the convenience of pre-made chicken tikka masala paste makes it easier than ever to enjoy this culinary delight at home. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of crafting a delectable chicken tikka masala using paste.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup chicken tikka masala paste
• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, chicken tikka masala paste, yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat some oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Marinated Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Coconut Milk: Stir in the diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Add the Heavy Cream: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve the chicken tikka masala hot with rice, naan, or your favorite side dish.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use a full-fat coconut milk.
• If you don’t have chicken tikka masala paste, you can make your own by blending together spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and ginger.
• To make the dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu or paneer.
• Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the top of each serving for extra richness.
• Experiment with different spice combinations to create your own unique flavor profile.

Variations

• Butter Chicken: Add 1/4 cup of unsalted butter to the sauce for a creamy and indulgent touch.
• Saag Chicken Tikka Masala: Stir in 1 cup of chopped spinach to the sauce for a vibrant green hue and added nutrition.
• Vegetable Tikka Masala: Replace the chicken with a combination of vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, let the chicken tikka masala cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Defrosting and Reheating

• To defrost, place the frozen chicken tikka masala in the refrigerator overnight.
• To reheat, transfer the thawed chicken tikka masala to a skillet or microwave-safe dish and heat over medium heat until warmed through.

Perfecting the Art of Chicken Tikka Masala Paste

1. Choose a High-Quality Paste: Opt for a paste made with authentic Indian spices and minimal additives.
2. Balance the Flavors: Adjust the amount of paste used according to your desired level of spiciness and richness.
3. Marinate Thoroughly: Allow the chicken to marinate for an extended period to absorb the flavors of the paste.
4. Cook the Sauce Slowly: Simmer the sauce over low heat to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
5. Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or coconut milk. If it’s too thin, simmer for a longer period.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will take slightly longer to cook.

Q: How can I make the dish gluten-free?
A: Ensure that the chicken tikka masala paste and all other ingredients used are gluten-free.

Q: Is chicken tikka masala healthy?
A: Chicken tikka masala can be made healthier by using lean chicken, low-fat coconut milk, and brown rice instead of white rice.