Quick and Easy Tikka Masala Recipe I Make Again and Again

Creamy Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine right to your dinner table.

With its rich and aromatic sauce, this dish offers a delightful balance of spices that tantalizes the taste buds.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also comforting and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for family meals or a cozy night in.

Quick and Easy Tikka Masala Recipe

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• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving

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• Calories: 400
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg

Cook and Prep Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients List

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Mix the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer if time allows).
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown in the same skillet. Add garlic and ginger, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Tomatoes and Cream: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Then, add the heavy cream and stir until combined. If desired, add sugar to balance the acidity.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan.

Tips for Perfect Tikka Masala

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor, so consider using whole spices and grinding them yourself.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste; add more chili powder for heat or more cream for richness.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Too Thick Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to reach the desired consistency.
• Too Spicy: If it’s too spicy, stir in some additional cream or yogurt to mellow the heat.
• Chicken Not Tender: Ensure you cook the chicken only until it’s done, as overcooking can make it tough.

Visual Appeal

The dish is visually stunning, with its bright orange sauce and tender pieces of chicken, garnished with fresh cilantro. Served with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, it creates an inviting and colorful plate.

Perfect Pairing

Pair your Tikka Masala with fluffy basmati rice, garlic naan, or a side of cucumber raita for a refreshing complement to the rich flavors.

Occasions to Serve

This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, entertaining guests, and even festive occasions. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!

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Creamy Tikka Masala is a delightful dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your home with minimal effort.

Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a comforting meal that everyone will love.

With a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Enjoy the warmth and richness of this delightful recipe!

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