Name: Chicken Tikka Masala – 4 Powerful Tips for Perfect Spice Balance
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground coriander; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons butter or ghee; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Tikka Masala is a crowd-pleaser that brings the rich, aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine straight to your table. With the right balance of spices, this dish has layers of deep flavor, with a creamy tomato sauce that envelops tender chicken pieces. Whether you’re a fan of bold, spiced dishes or just looking for something comforting and filling, Chicken Tikka Masala is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s easy to make in just under an hour, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter or ghee
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken Tikka Masala – 4 Powerful Tips for Perfect Spice Balance

Directions

In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (overnight for the best flavor).
Heat butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream, reduce the heat to low, and let the dish simmer for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Dairy-Free Version: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream for a dairy-free version of Chicken Tikka Masala.
Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder and add more or less depending on your preferred spice level. You can also add fresh green chilies for an extra kick.
Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
For a Smokier Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to enhance the smoky flavor of the dish.
Make it Leaner: Use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Chicken Tikka Masala can be frozen for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or cream to loosen up the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe as they are juicier and more tender when cooked. They’ll also hold up better during the simmering process.

Can I skip the marinating step?

While marinating the chicken enhances the flavor and tenderness, you can skip this step if you’re in a hurry. Just ensure to cook the chicken properly to bring out the best flavor.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes! You can adjust the spice level by using more or less chili powder, or by adding green chilies for a fresh, spicy kick. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder and use sweet paprika.

Is it possible to make Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make this dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will only improve after a day or two.

Can I use coconut milk instead of cream?

Yes, if you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk. This will give the dish a slightly different flavor but will still be rich and creamy.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a little cornstarch slurry to achieve the desired consistency.

What should I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?

Traditionally, Chicken Tikka Masala is served with basmati rice or naan bread. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Can I use pre-made tikka masala paste?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought tikka masala paste instead of the homemade spice blend. However, fresh spices will give you a more vibrant and aromatic flavor.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! After browning the chicken and preparing the sauce, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce is thickened.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can cut into a piece of chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful, comforting dish that perfectly balances spices and creaminess. The marinated chicken, aromatic spices, and rich sauce come together in a deliciously satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold, authentic flavors.