Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a classic, comforting curry made with tender marinated chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. This Chicken Tikka Masala recipe delivers bold Indian-inspired flavor with a rich, velvety texture that’s perfect for a cozy homemade dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, flavorful sauce with warm spices
• Juicy chicken thanks to yogurt-based marinade
• Restaurant-quality taste made at home
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
• Pairs beautifully with rice or naan

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is made by marinating chicken in yogurt and spices, searing it, then simmering in a creamy tomato-based sauce until tender.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Course dinner

Cuisine Indian-inspired

Ingredients

  

For Marinating the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 7 ounces plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

For the Sauce

• 15- ounce can tomato sauce
• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 5 cloves garlic minced
• 4 teaspoons garam masala
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, mix yogurt, garam masala, lemon juice, black pepper, and ground ginger. Add chicken pieces and stir until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
• Heat a nonstick pan over high heat. Add half of the marinated chicken (including marinade clinging to the pieces). Sear for a few minutes until golden and lightly charred. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining chicken.
• Reduce heat to medium. Add tomato sauce, cream, garlic, garam masala, paprika, salt, and cayenne to the pan. Stir until combined.
• Add the seared chicken back into the sauce and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked.
• Turn off heat and serve hot. This Chicken Tikka Masala is best enjoyed fresh.

Notes

Serve with basmati rice, naan, or roti. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

 

Ingredients

For Marinating the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 7 ounces plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

For the Sauce

• 15-ounce can tomato sauce
• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 teaspoons garam masala
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, garam masala, lemon juice, black pepper, and ground ginger. Add chicken pieces and stir until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Heat a nonstick pan over high heat. Add half of the marinated chicken (including marinade clinging to the pieces). Sear for a few minutes until golden and lightly charred. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining chicken.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add tomato sauce, cream, garlic, garam masala, paprika, salt, and cayenne to the pan. Stir until combined.
4. Add the seared chicken back into the sauce and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Turn off heat and serve hot. This Chicken Tikka Masala is best enjoyed fresh.

Tips & Tricks

• Marinate longer for deeper flavor
• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness if preferred
• Adjust cayenne to control spice level
• Simmer gently to prevent sauce from splitting

Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinate Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian-inspired
• Difficulty: Medium
• Dietary Notes: Gluten-free, halal-friendly

Notes

Serve with basmati rice, naan, or roti. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 32g

FAQ

Is chicken tikka masala spicy?
It’s mildly spicy; adjust cayenne to taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, flavors deepen when reheated the next day.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months in airtight containers.

What’s the difference between tikka masala and butter chicken?
Tikka masala is spicier and more tomato-forward.

Can I use dairy-free cream?
Yes, full-fat coconut cream works well.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Freezes well.

Similar Recipes

• Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
• Tzatziki Chicken Salad

Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich, comforting curry that brings bold flavor and creamy texture to your dinner table. Easy to make and deeply satisfying, it’s a must-have recipe for any home cook.