Dreamy Chicken Tikka Masala

Category: Meals for Every Occasion

Spice and yogurt-marinated chicken, pan-seared to perfection, then simmered in a creamy tomato sauce. Pair with naan or rice.
Clare Greco
Updated on Tue, 10 Jun 2025 14:26:19 GMT
Savory Chicken Tikka Masala Save
Savory Chicken Tikka Masala | homebitesbyana.com

Take your senses on a trip to India with this vibrant Chicken Tikka Masala. Juicy chicken soaks up spiced yogurt, then gets cozy in a creamy tomato sauce packed with bold flavor. You'll be hooked from the very first bite.

This dish always reminds me of when my neighbor showed me the ropes of Indian cooking. Toasting the spices and layering in new ingredients totally shifted how I made curries after that.

Irresistible Ingredients

  • Ginger-Garlic: Freshly mashed paste brings a punchy aroma
  • Heavy Cream: Gives you that classic creamy finish
  • Fresh Spices: Toast them whole so the aroma fills your kitchen
  • Tomatoes: Pick whole canned ones for the richest sauce
  • Yogurt: Full-fat makes chicken unbelievably soft
  • Chicken: Use thighs for juicy, flavorful bites
Chicken Tikka Masala Bowl Save
Chicken Tikka Masala Bowl | homebitesbyana.com

Bold Masala Magic

Final Harmony:
Pop the chicken back in the sauce and let it soak up every bit of flavor.
Simmer Session:
Allow the sauce to gently bubble away until it's thick and rich, giving it a few stirs here and there.
Sauce Building:
Let those whole spices toast, then add tomatoes and pour in the cream for awesome depth.
Chicken Perfection:
Grill or sear the chicken so it gets crisp and a little smoky on the edges.
Marination Magic:
Toss chicken in the spiced yogurt and let it hang out in the fridge overnight. The longer, the better for big flavor.

If there's one thing I learned from real Indian cooks, it's not to rush. Letting everything marinate and slowly develop flavor turns a simple dish into something really amazing.

Tastiest Sides

Dole it out with steamy basmati rice or naan to soak up that goodness. Throw on raita and some cilantro chutney if you want the real deal at home.

Spice Things Up

Dial up the heat with more chilies or a pinch of garam masala. Sneak in peas or peppers for a veggie kick. If you skip chicken, paneer or chickpeas totally work too.

Stay Flavorful

Keep leftovers in a sealed box in the fridge for up to three days. Honestly, it tastes even better later because the flavors settle in. Warm it gently on the stove, add a little cream if it's dry.

Creamy Chicken Masala Save
Creamy Chicken Masala | homebitesbyana.com

When I want to wow friends with a taste of India, this is what I make. It nails the spice and creaminess combo. Even if it's their first time with Indian food, they can't stop going back for more.

Chicken Tikka Dish

Juicy chicken soaked in spices, nestled in a creamy, fragrant tomato sauce with bold Indian flavors.

Prep Time
~
Cooking Time
45 min
Total Time
45 min
By: Ana

Category: Lunch & Dinner

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine: Indian

Yields: 4 Servings

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 3-4 chicken breasts without skin or bones, chopped into small chunks
02 1 can (14 oz) peeled whole tomatoes
03 2 tablespoons of ginger-garlic paste
04 1 cup of plain yogurt
05 2 tablespoons of vegetable or coconut oil
06 1 cup of heavy cream

→ Spices

07 Salt as needed
08 A pinch of ground turmeric
09 Some red chili powder
10 Coriander powder
11 Ground cumin
12 Garam masala

Steps

Step 01

Combine yogurt, garlic-ginger paste, and your favorite spices in a bowl. Toss the chicken in, stir until coated, and let it sit for an hour or overnight if you've got time.

Step 02

Warm some oil in a big skillet on medium heat. Fry the marinated chicken for 8-10 minutes, or until it's browned all over.

Step 03

Throw in the tomatoes with the rest of the spices. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and break apart.

Step 04

Mix in the heavy cream, let it simmer for 10 minutes. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and simmer another 5 minutes.

Notes

  1. Letting the chicken marinate overnight gives even richer flavor.
  2. Spice level can be adjusted to how you like it.
  3. Tastes awesome with naan or basmati rice.

Required Equipment

  • Big skillet
  • Bowl for mixing
  • Measuring tools

Allergen Information

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Includes dairy

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and don’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Carbs: 23 g
  • Protein: 30 g