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Tikka Masala is not just a dish; it is a culinary phenomenon that has transcended borders and captured the hearts of food enthusiasts around the globe. This iconic Indian dish, characterized by its rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, is beloved not only for its delightful flavors but also for its cultural significance. Tikka Masala represents a fusion of traditional Indian cooking with influences from the West, making it a symbol of the multicultural tapestry that defines modern gastronomy.

Classic Chicken Tikka Masala

Discover the magic of Tikka Masala, a beloved Indian dish that combines rich, creamy tomato sauce with marinated chicken or vegetables. Learn how to create an authentic homemade version using accessible ingredients, from marinating the protein to mastering the spices. Delve into the culinary history, explore various dietary adaptations, and get tips for perfecting flavors. Elevate your dining experience with this flavorful journey into Indian cuisine, perfect for any occasion.
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade:

500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

200g plain yogurt

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or freshly minced ginger and garlic)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust according to your spice preference)

Salt, to taste

For the Masala Sauce:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust for heat level)

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon garam masala

400g canned diced tomatoes, with juice

150ml cream (heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Salt, to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    - In a mixing bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix until well blended.

      - Add the chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

        Cook the Chicken:

          - Preheat your grill or oven to high (approximately 200°C/400°F).

            - Place the marinated chicken pieces onto skewer sticks or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Grill for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges. Set aside.

              Prepare the Masala Sauce:

                - In a large pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown, around 5-7 minutes.

                  - Stir in ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies; sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

                    - Add ground coriander, ground cumin, and garam masala to the pan, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to release the spices’ aroma.

                      Combine Tomatoes and Cream:

                        - Carefully pour in the canned diced tomatoes, including their juice, and mix well with the spices. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld.

                          - Stir in the cream, season with salt to taste, and let the sauce simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes, making it luxuriously creamy.

                            Mix in Chicken:

                              - Add the grilled chicken pieces to the masala sauce, stirring well to coat the chicken in the rich sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes so that the flavors blend perfectly.

                                Serve:

                                  - Garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with aromatic basmati rice or soft naan for a delightful meal.

                                    Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 4

                                      - Presentation Tips: Consider serving the Tikka Masala in a traditional Indian curry dish with basmati rice molded on the side and naan wrapped in a cloth to keep warm. A few extra cilantro leaves sprinkled on top add a fresh touch!