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How to Make Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala at Home | Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Chicken Tikka Masala, a dish that never fails to mesmerize our taste buds with its rich, creamy, and aromatic flavors. This classic Indian recipe is a staple in many Indian households, and I’m excited to share the simplest way to make it at home. Marinated in a mix of spices, yogurt, and lemon juice, chicken tikka is grilled to perfection and then simmered in a velvety tomato-based sauce. The result is a dish that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons garam masala powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• Buy from BharatBasket:

Buy Chicken Breast
Buy Ghee
Buy Garam Masala Powder
Buy Cumin Powder
Buy Coriander Powder
Buy Diced Tomatoes
Buy Chicken Broth
Buy Heavy Cream

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, ghee, garam masala powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Add the chicken and mix until the chicken is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Grill the chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. Make the sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes or until they’re lightly browned. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Finish the dish: Add the grilled chicken to the sauce and stir to coat. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the chicken is fully coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve with basmati rice or with your favorite naan recipe.

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

• Serve with a dollop of raita (a yogurt and cucumber sauce) or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for added freshness.
• Pair with some crispy onion bhajis or papri chaat for a satisfying snack.
• Experiment with different spices, such as cumin seeds or cardamom powder, to create a unique flavor profile.

Conclusion:

With this easy recipe, you’re just a few steps away from creating a flavorful and aromatic Chicken Tikka Masala at home. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and toppings to make it your own. And remember, the key to a great Chicken Tikka Masala is in the marination – so take your time and let those flavors meld together!

Find all authentic Indian ingredients at BharatBasket.com and enjoy homemade flavors!