Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste (or 1 tsp minced ginger and 1 tsp minced garlic)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

   • In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt.
   • Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, stir to coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers (optional).
   • Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until slightly charred and cooked through. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a hot skillet until browned. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • Heat the oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until softened and golden brown.
   • Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in the cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes until they release their aroma.
   • Add the crushed tomatoes, bring to a simmer, and let cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.

4. Combine and Finish:

   • Add the grilled chicken to the sauce and stir to coat. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce is creamy and the chicken is tender.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal.

Tips:

• For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
• Marinating the chicken longer enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in the sauce instead of cream.

Enjoy this flavorful, creamy Chicken Tikka Masala, a favorite that brings together traditional spices in a deliciously comforting dish!