Ingredients:
For the chicken tikka:
- 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons tikka masala spice blend
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Oil for grilling
For the masala sauce:
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 teaspoons tikka masala spice blend
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for additional heat)
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
For the chicken tikka:
- In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, tikka masala spice blend, ginger paste, garlic paste, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours (marination is optional, but it enhances the flavors).
- Preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and grill or bake until cooked through and slightly charred. Set aside.
For the masala sauce:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- Stir in the tikka masala spice blend, ground cumin, ground coriander, and paprika (if using). Cook for a minute to release the flavors of the spices.
- Add tomato puree and cook for a few minutes until the oil separates from the masala.
- Reduce the heat to low and add heavy cream. Mix well and simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add water to adjust the consistency of the sauce. Simmer for another few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season with salt according to your taste.
- Add the grilled chicken tikka to the masala sauce and mix gently, ensuring that the chicken is coated with the sauce. Simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot with naan bread, roti, or steamed rice.
Enjoy the rich and flavorful Chicken Tikka Masala!