Easy Chicken Tikka Masala

This easy chicken tikka masala is pure comfort food with vibrant flavors and a rich creamy sauce that brings out the best in tender chicken pieces All it takes is half an hour and you have a fantastic meal with mostly pantry staples that truly tastes like something from your favorite takeout spot

I first made this recipe on a weeknight when I was craving something cozy and a little different It quickly became my go to meal for impressing friends and family without much effort

Ingredients

• Basmati rice: turns deeply fragrant and fluffy perfect for soaking up the sauce Look for long aromatic grains
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: bring extra juiciness and stay tender compared to chicken breast Choose dark meat for best flavor
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: for essential seasoning If possible use freshly ground for brighter taste
• Vegetable oil: delivers a clean base for sautéing Use a neutral oil so spices and aromatics stand out
• Sweet onion: balances savory and sweet in the sauce Always go for the freshest brightest firm onion
• Tomato paste: deepens the base color and flavor Choose double concentrated for best impact
• Garlic and freshly grated ginger: add a bold boost and signature warmth Opt for plump garlic cloves and juicy ginger root for easiest prep
• Garam masala chili powder and ground turmeric: bring in aromatic warmth color and low heat Always check your spice freshness for best results
• Canned tomato sauce: binds the sauce and adds tang Choose a smooth variety with no extra seasonings
• Chicken stock: supports savory richness and keeps things saucy Use low sodium to control salt level
• Heavy cream: softens the spice and turns the sauce luxuriously smooth Always use full fat for best texture
• Fresh cilantro: brings a pop of brightness right before serving Go for tender green leaves and avoid any wilting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Rice:

Rinse one cup basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear then combine with two cups water in a saucepan Bring to a simmer over medium heat then cover and reduce to low Cook for about twelve minutes until the water has absorbed and the rice is tender Turn off heat and let sit covered for five minutes for fluffier rice

Season and Sear the Chicken:

Cut chicken thighs into one inch chunks and season well with kosher salt and black pepper In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot heat the vegetable oil over medium high Once the oil shimmers add chicken and cook undisturbed for two minutes then add the diced onion Continue cooking another three minutes stirring occasionally until the outsides are golden

Bloom the Spices:

Lower the heat to medium Add the tomato paste minced garlic and grated ginger Stir constantly for about a minute until deeply fragrant and the paste darkens Slightly toasting the spices at this stage is key to building deep flavor

Simmer the Sauce:

Add garam masala chili powder and turmeric stirring until the chicken and onions are evenly coated Pour in canned tomato sauce and chicken stock Scrape the bottom of the pot well Bring to a boil and then lower the heat to a steady simmer Let the sauce gently bubble for about ten minutes stirring every few minutes until it is slightly thickened and the flavors are melded

Finish with Cream and Cilantro:

Turn the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream stirring steadily until the sauce is creamy and uniform Heat gently for one minute more then taste for salt and pepper Adjust seasoning if needed Add chopped fresh cilantro off heat and stir just before serving

Serve:

Spoon the creamy chicken and sauce over fluffy rice and top with extra fresh cilantro for color and flavor Serve hot with naan or steamed vegetables if you like

Pin

My favorite part of this recipe is how the garam masala fills my kitchen with a cozy aroma that reminds me of the first time I made this dish on a chilly fall night It felt like it instantly warmed everyone at the table and brought us together

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken tikka masala keeps very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results reheat gently on the stove over low heat Stir in a splash of water or extra cream if needed You can also freeze leftovers in a shallow container for up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick lunch or dinner

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer to use chicken breast instead of thighs cut the meat into even smaller pieces to avoid drying out You can use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy free version and still get a rich sauce If you do not have basmati rice try jasmine or even plain long grain rice The flavor will shift slightly but still work well

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious with warm naan bread or fluffy pita to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce Add a side of sautéed spinach or roasted cauliflower if you want more vegetables A dollop of yogurt and a squeeze of lime juice on top add extra freshness

Cultural Context

Chicken tikka masala is a beloved dish celebrated for its creation at the crossroads of South Asian flavors and British tastes Its creamy tomato based sauce is rooted in Indian cuisine but became popular in the UK as a comfort food favorite Often considered an example of modern culinary fusion this dish is now loved worldwide for its adaptability and approachable spice level

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes chicken thighs ideal for this dish?

Chicken thighs stay tender and juicy during simmering, soaking up the rich sauce without drying out. Their flavor holds up well against robust spices used in this preparation.

→ Can I substitute the basmati rice?

While basmati adds aromatic flair, jasmine or long-grain white rice can also work. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice.

→ How spicy is this version?

The heat level is moderate, relying on chili powder and garam masala for warmth. You can adjust the spice by adding more or less chili powder to taste.

→ Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free alternative, use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. This will create a similarly creamy texture while introducing subtle coconut notes.

→ Which garnishes enhance the flavors?

Fresh cilantro offers a bright finish, while a wedge of lime or a dollop of yogurt can provide extra freshness and balance the richness of the sauce.