Craving authentic indian flavors? master the art of chicken tikka masala with paste

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala, a beloved Indian dish that has captivated taste buds worldwide. This delectable dish combines tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices, grilled to perfection, and simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce. While traditional recipes require extensive preparation and marinating time, the use of chicken tikka masala paste offers a convenient and time-saving alternative, allowing you to savor this culinary masterpiece in a matter of minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup chicken tikka masala paste
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, chicken tikka masala paste, yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the chicken onto skewers or place it directly on the grill. Grill for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly charred.

3. Make the Sauce: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute more.

4. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

5. Add the Chicken: Add the grilled chicken to the sauce and stir to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

6. Add the Cream (Optional): If desired, stir in the heavy cream for a richer sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and mint. Serve with rice, naan bread, or your favorite side dishes.

Tips

• For a spicier sauce, use more cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili powder.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• To make the sauce ahead of time, simply follow steps 3-5. When ready to serve, add the chicken and heat through.
• Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations

• Vegetable Tikka Masala: Substitute vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and onions for the chicken.
• Paneer Tikka Masala: Use paneer (Indian cheese) instead of chicken.
• Butter Chicken: Add 1/2 cup of unsalted butter to the sauce for a richer flavor.

Health Benefits

Chicken Tikka Masala is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:

• High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken Tikka Masala contains various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Turmeric, a spice used in the dish, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of chicken? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts.
• Can I make the sauce without heavy cream? Yes, you can omit the heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• How long can I store Chicken Tikka Masala? Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Masala? Yes, you can freeze Chicken Tikka Masala for up to 3 months.
• What are some good side dishes for Chicken Tikka Masala? Rice, naan bread, and raita are all excellent side dishes for Chicken Tikka Masala.