Chicken Tikka Masala

Get ready to savor the rich and flavorful taste of Chicken Tikka Masala, a popular and beloved Indian dish. Tender chicken pieces marinated in aromatic spices, grilled to perfection, and then simmered in a creamy and spiced tomato-based sauce. This vibrant and aromatic dish is best enjoyed with steamed rice or warm naan bread, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

For the chicken marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the sauce:

• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill or broil for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a large skillet or pan, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and golden brown, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for a minute to toast the spices and release their flavors.
7. Add the crushed tomatoes to the pan and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the salt to taste.
9. Add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce and simmer for a few more minutes until the chicken is heated through and coated in the sauce.
10. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
11. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot with steamed rice or warm naan bread.