Chicken Tikka Masala

The Tikka Masala is an all time favorite dish all across Indian restaurants.There are many theories about its origin where-by some claim that it was accidentally invented in India but the most viable theory suggests that it was invented in the UK when a customer complained that the chicken curry was too dry and the chef created this tomato based sauce that was so well received that it gained popularity all over the UK.It is now a British National Dish and devoured by people all over the world.Chicken tikka masala is the perfect fusion of east-meets-west flavors in a global world.

I love the vibrant color of the Tikka Masala and the rich luscious texture that’s just wanting to be savored. It’s a favorite in our family with my kids demanding it for dinner many times. I’ve made this dish using Chicken,Paneer and Tofu and they’re always a hit with the crowd when entertaining. The small chunks of Chicken are marinated in yoghurt and some spices and left for a few hours to ensure that the flavors seep in.The chunks are then grilled just until they develop those gorgeous golden edges.A great party tip is to make a big batch of these Chicken Tikkas and save some to serve as an appetizer and use the rest in the Tikka Masala sauce.

The Chicken Tikkas are then transferred into this rich tomato based sauce consisting of ginger, garlic, spices,tomatoes and cream and then simmered until the redolence of the warm spices starts making you hungry.The unique smoky flavor that’s achieved by grilling the tikka and then adding them into the sauce is what makes this dish so irresistible.The sauce has a hint of sweetness in the background but you can still taste the spices.The cream adds the richness and brings it all together.It’s the perfect comfort food especially in these cold winter days and can be enjoyed with some Roti,Naan or steaming hot Rice.Enjoy!

Chicken Tikka Masala

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Ingredients

  

For the Chicken Tikka

• Chicken Tenders-1 lb cubed
• Crushed Ginger-1 tbsp
• Crushed Garlic-1 tbsp
• Greek Yoghurt-a cup
• Garam masala-2 tsp
• Turmeric-1/2 tsp
• Red chili or paprika-1 tsp
• Salt- to taste

For the Sauce

• Medium onion-1 chopped finely
• Crushed Ginger-1 tbsp
• Crushed Garlic-1 tbsp
• Ground Cumin-1 tsp
• Ground Coriander-1 tsp
• Garam Masala-1 tsp
• Turmeric- 1/2 tsp
• Canned Tomato Puree-2 cups
• Sugar-1 tbsp
• Water-1 1/2 cups
• Cream-1/3 cup
• Kasoori Methi dried fenugreek-1 tbsp
• Butter-2 tbsp
• Oil-1 tbsp
• Salt-to taste

Instructions

 

For the Chicken Tikka

• In a ziplock bag marinade the chicken tenders along with the rest of the ingredients and let it sit in the fridge for 4-5 hrs.
• Place the marinated chicken pieces onto a foil lined baking sheet.Drizzle some oil all over and grill for about 8-10 minutes checking constantly until you see the golden edges developing on the sides.
• Once done take the tray out of the oven and keep aside.

For the Sauce

• In a deep skillet heat the butter and oil.
• Add the onions and saute until slightly golden.
• Lower the heat and add the ginger and garlic and continue to cook for about a minute.
• Add the spices and mix well.Add the tomato puree and continue to cook.
• Add the sugar, salt and cook for about 5 minutes until well combined.
• Add the water and bring to a boil.Reduce the heat and add the chicken pieces.
• Continue to cook for about 8-10 minutes on low heat until all incorporated.
• Add the cream and kasoori methi. Check the seasonings.
• Serve hot with roti,naan or rice.