Description
Bold, creamy, and deeply satisfying—this Chicken Tikka Masala is a perfect balance of spiced marinade, rich tomato-cream sauce, and tender chicken. Inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s style, this dish brings together Indian and British influences in a way that’s approachable for home cooks. Perfect for a quick dinner, easy recipe night, or when you’re looking for flavor-packed food ideas that rival restaurant quality. Whether you’re exploring dinner ideas or just want a new comfort food favorite, this one won’t disappoint.
Ingredients
0.9 kg boneless chicken thighs
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon butter or ghee
1 1/2 cups tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
1 tablespoon oil (for searing)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), and salt. Add chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. Heat oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken until lightly charred and almost cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In a deep sauté pan, melt butter or ghee over medium heat. Add more garlic and ginger if desired, then stir in cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder. Toast for 30 seconds to release the aroma.
4. Pour in the tomato puree. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and the raw tomato smell fades.
5. Add the cream, stir gently, and reduce heat. Simmer for 5–6 minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the pan. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and coated in sauce.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
Add more cream for a richer, restaurant-style finish.
Use ghee instead of butter for deeper, more authentic flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: chicken tikka masala, easy dinner, quick curry, homemade Indian food, comfort food, creamy chicken recipe