Description
A quick, flavorful, and kid-approved homemade Chicken Tikka Masala that tastes better than takeout. This recipe features tender marinated chicken thighs in a rich, creamy, and smoky tomato sauce, ready in about 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons garam masala (for marinade)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (28oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garam masala (for sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, 4 cloves minced garlic, 2 teaspoons garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and slightly charred. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add diced onion and a pinch of salt; cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Add remaining minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and 1/2 cup water. Stir to scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Optionally, blend the sauce until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and 1 teaspoon garam masala. Return chicken and any juices to the skillet. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is glossy.
- Serve immediately over basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes
For a smoother sauce, blend the onion-tomato mixture after simmering. Use full-fat dairy for the best texture and flavor. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked in step 2, as it finishes in the sauce. This recipe is naturally gluten-free but check your garam masala label. For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut yogurt and coconut milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 35
Keywords: chicken tikka masala, indian recipe, homemade curry, easy dinner, weeknight meals, creamy chicken, gluten-free recipe