Name: Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2-3 Tablespoons lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves, grated or finely minced; 1 Tablespoon ginger, grated or finely minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 Tablespoon paprika (not smoked); 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili (or 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red chili flakes); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or neutral oil; 1/2 cup full-fat yogurt (or heavy cream); 3 Tablespoons ghee, or neutral oil (avocado or olive oil can be used); 1 large onion, finely diced; 2 garlic cloves, grated or finely minced; 1 Tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or finely minced; 2 teaspoons cumin; 1 Tablespoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 Tablespoon paprika (not smoked); 2 teaspoons garam masala; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 2 roma tomatoes, diced (or 2 cups canned whole tomatoes, crushed by hand or 1 cup passata); 1/3 cup heavy cream (plus more if needed); 1/2 cup water (plus more if needed); Fresh cilantro leaves; Basmati rice and naan bread

If you have a craving for something rich, flavorful, and downright comforting, this Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Tender pieces of marinated chicken grilled to perfection and then simmered in a luscious, spiced tomato cream sauce create a dish bursting with bold Indian-inspired flavors. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family and friends or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The left side shows a clear bowl with chunks of pale pink meat covered in a thick, brownish-orange sauce that looks creamy and coats the meat evenly. The right side has a white bowl with a few black lines near the rim, inside which there are finely chopped light yellow onions mixed with several piles of ground spices in different shades of brown and red. A wooden spoon rests in the bowl, partially covered by the onions and spices. Both bowls sit on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting your hands on the ingredients for this Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is surprisingly simple, yet each component plays a crucial role in creating the dish’s signature flavor and texture. From fragrant spices to creamy yogurt and juicy tomatoes, every ingredient contributes a delicious layer.

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The perfect cut for juicy, tender pieces that soak up spices beautifully.
Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken in the marinade.
Garlic and ginger: Freshly grated for that vibrant, authentic punch of flavor.
Ground cumin and coriander: Essential earthy spices that form the base of the masala.
Paprika (not smoked): Brings sweetness and stunning color without overpowering heat.
Garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that defines classic Indian dishes like this one.
Turmeric: Adds a warm, golden hue and subtle depth.
Kashmiri chili (or cayenne/red chili flakes): For gentle heat and a lovely red tint.
Kosher salt: Balances all flavors perfectly.
Extra virgin olive oil or neutral oil: For marinating and cooking chicken to juicy perfection.
Full-fat yogurt (or heavy cream): Adds creaminess and softens the spices in the marinade.
Ghee or oil: Used for sautéing and creating that rich sauce base.
Onion: Finely diced to melt into the sauce and add natural sweetness.
Roma tomatoes (fresh or canned): Form the heart of the sauce, providing tang and body.
Heavy cream: Smooths and thickens the sauce for that luxurious finish.
Water: Used to adjust sauce consistency to your liking.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing the chicken pieces with lemon juice, yogurt, garlic, ginger, and all your dry spices to create a vibrant marinade. Letting it sit for anywhere from 15 minutes to overnight allows the flavors to deeply permeate the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat ghee or oil in a heavy pot and soften finely diced onions until they turn translucent and sweet. Then add the fresh garlic, ginger, and your warm spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and garam masala. Cooking them briefly unlocks their fragrance and builds the flavor foundation for the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Add diced fresh or canned tomatoes along with salt. Simmer this mixture gently until the sauce thickens and turns a rich deep red. This stage transforms raw tomatoes into a luscious, pulpy base that carries all the spiced notes perfectly.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

While your sauce simmers, skewer the marinated chicken and grill it on high heat just until it develops beautiful char marks. The quick grill adds a smoky layer to the chicken’s flavor, even if it’s not completely cooked through yet.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Pour in cream and water to the tomato sauce, then add your chicken pieces along with any juices from the skewers. Let everything cook together for 8 to 10 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency. Feel free to adjust the thickness with a little more water or dollops of yogurt or cream for extra richness.

How to Serve Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

A white pot filled with a thick stew that has many pieces of cooked meat in rich orange-brown sauce. The stew looks chunky with visible bits of onion and small red pieces, giving it a textured, hearty appearance. A wooden spoon with a smooth, dark handle rests inside the pot, partly covered in the sauce. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and bright contrast to the rich tones of the stew. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro leaves sprinkled over the top add a burst of vibrant color and a hint of herbal freshness that brightens this rich dish beautifully. A squeeze of fresh lemon can also lift the flavors at serving.

Side Dishes

Chicken Tikka Masala pairs incredibly well with fluffy basmati rice or warm, buttery naan bread for dipping into that heavenly sauce. For a lighter option, try serving alongside a crisp cucumber salad or steamed greens to balance out the indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun spin, serve the chicken tikka masala in individual bowls with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top. You could also turn it into a festive party dish by spooning it over mini naan toasts as bite-sized appetizers that will wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Chicken Tikka Masala should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen even further, making it divine served the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. Cool the chicken and sauce completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months for easy, flavorful meals on busy days. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or cream to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid reheating too quickly or at high heat to keep the chicken tender and the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works fine, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful in this recipe, especially during the grilling and simmering process.

Is it necessary to grill the chicken?

Grilling adds a wonderful smoky char, but you can also cook the marinated chicken pieces in a hot skillet or broiler if grilling is not an option. Just aim for that slight caramelization to enhance flavor.

How spicy is this Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe?

The recipe balances gentle warmth with aromatic spices, but you can adjust the chili levels up or down depending on your heat preference by modifying the Kashmiri chili or cayenne amounts.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While this recipe is for chicken, you can substitute paneer or tofu and follow the same steps for a delicious vegetarian tikka masala experience.

What’s the best way to serve the sauce if I don’t have naan?

Steamed basmati rice is the perfect companion to scoop up this creamy, spiced sauce. You could also try flatbreads like roti or even crusty bread for dipping.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe brings together incredible flavors, simple ingredients, and satisfying textures that make it an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a bit of culinary magic in your own kitchen. Go ahead, give it a try—you might just discover your new signature dish!

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need