The Simplest Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe You Will Ever Find

To most of my non-Indian friends, Indian food means chicken tikka, tandoori chicken, biryani, and butter chicken. But, they presume these are difficult to make. But, the truth is that Indian cooking, while time-consuming, is simple and easy to make. So, don’t let anyone scare you from trying your favorite Indian recipes. Similar to butter chicken, the chicken tikka masala is the most popular recipe in most Indian restaurants. This is my favorite and possibly the easiest recipe you will get.

Step-by-step: Chicken tikka masala recipe

Chicken—Thaw the chicken at least an hour before cooking. Cut the chicken pieces into 2-inch cubes. Pat dry with a paper towel.Pro tip – The wet chicken will prevent the marinade from sticking to the chicken, so pat the chicken dry.

Marinate chicken – In a glass or ceramic bowl, marinate the chicken with salt, pepper, and all the spices. Add the lemon juice and Greek yogurt. Combine well. Leave to marinate for an hour on the counter or up to 12 hours in the fridge.Pro tip – Do not use metal bowls to marinate the chicken as it causes the acid in the marinade to react with the metal.

Pan fry chicken – Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or saute pan on medium-high heat. Using a tong, layer the chicken pieces one at a time around the pan. Cook on high for two minutes. Then, turn the pieces over and cook for two minutes more.Pro tip – Stir gently. The chicken does not need to cook right now; it’s all about that color. So, cook on high, adjusting to medium-high as necessary.

Tikka masala sauce

Saute – To the same saute pan, add the remaining oil and the chopped onion. Saute until translucent, then add the ginger and garlic. Saute for 30 seconds more. Gravy – Add the spices followed by the tomato paste. Saute for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant. Add the Greek yogurt, and lemon juice, followed by the chicken broth or water.

Chicken – Return the chicken back to the pan along with the juices. Combine well. Bring to a boil. Then, cover the pan and simmer for 15 minutes or until the chicken is tender. Garnish – Taste and adjust seasoning or lemon juice. Garnish with chopped cilantro.