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A vibrant bowl of chicken tikka masala with creamy sauce and herbs

Proven way to grow Chicken Tikka Masala

This recipe provides a fool-proof guide to making a delicious Chicken Tikka Masala, ensuring tender chicken and a rich, flavorful sauce.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Large pan
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 500 g Chicken breast cut into cubes
  • 150 g Plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Chili powder
  • 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp Garam masala
  • 0.5 tsp Salt or to taste

For the Sauce

  • 1 Onion chopped
  • 400 g Tomato passata
  • 100 ml Heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp Cumin powder
  • 1 tsp Coriander powder
  • 1 tsp Fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi) crushed
  • 1 Green chili slit (optional)

Instructions
 

Marinating the Chicken

  • Combine chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt in a bowl.
  • Mix well to coat the chicken thoroughly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for a few hours.

Cooking the Chicken Tikka

  • Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
  • Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
  • Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Preparing the Masala Sauce

  • In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in cumin powder, coriander powder, and green chili (if using), and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the tomato passata, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and crushed fenugreek leaves, then return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix well.
  • Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

Serve hot with naan bread or basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.