Chicken Tikka Masala – Classic Indian Curry

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Marinade

In a large bowl, combine 1.5 lbs chicken pieces, 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, 1/2 tsp garam masala, and 1 tsp salt. Mix well to coat the chicken. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 4 hours to overnight.

Step 2: Cook Marinated Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp ghee or oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned and slightly charred. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked through at this stage. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics for Sauce

In the same pan, add another 1 tbsp ghee or oil if needed. Add 1 large finely chopped onion and sauté over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, until softened and golden brown.

Step 4: Add Ginger-Garlic and Spices

Add 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste to the pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, and 1 tsp garam masala. Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.

Step 5: Simmer Tomato Base

Pour in 1 cup tomato puree and 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes. Add 1 tsp sugar (optional) and salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate from the sides.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the previously cooked chicken pieces back into the sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken. Cover and simmer for another 10-12 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Step 7: Finish with Cream and Garnish

Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until heated through, do not boil. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

• Marinate chicken overnight for best flavor

• Adjust spice level to your preference

• Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving

• Use paneer for a vegetarian option

• Add bell peppers for extra vegetables