Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe: A Rich and Flavorful Classic You Can Make at Home

If you're a fan of rich, creamy, and aromatic Indian dishes, Chicken Tikka Masala is a recipe that should be at the top of your list. This iconic dish, with its origins debated between the UK and India, has become a global favorite. Packed with layers of spices, tender grilled chicken, and a silky tomato-based sauce, it’s a meal that’s indulgent yet surprisingly easy to recreate at home.

In this blog, you’ll discover how to make restaurant-style Chicken Tikka Masala in your own kitchen. Whether you're cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this recipe delivers bold flavor, satisfying comfort, and a true taste of Indian culinary tradition.

What is Chicken Tikka Masala?

Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich and creamy dish that features grilled or pan-seared chunks of chicken (called “tikka”) that are marinated in yogurt and spices, then simmered in a tomato-based, spiced curry sauce. The “masala” refers to the spice blend that gives this dish its unforgettable aroma and flavor.

Though its exact origins are debated, it is widely accepted that the modern version of Chicken Tikka Masala emerged from South Asian communities in the UK, adapting Indian flavors to suit British palates. Today, it's loved around the world as a fusion masterpiece.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Authentic Taste – This recipe balances classic Indian spices with a creamy tomato gravy that rivals your favorite takeout.

Customizable Heat Level – Make it mild or spicy depending on your taste.

Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day and freezes well.

Pairs Perfectly – Serve with naan or basmati rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

500g boneless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup plain yogurt

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

1 tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)

1 tsp cumin powder

Salt to taste

For the Masala Sauce:

2 tbsp oil or ghee

2 tbsp butter

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 tsp ginger-garlic paste

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp turmeric

1 tsp garam masala

1/2 tsp red chili powder (optional for extra heat)

2 large tomatoes, pureed (or 1 cup canned tomato puree)

1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)

1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight for best results.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

You can either:

Grill: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill until slightly charred and cooked through.

Stovetop: Heat a pan with a little oil and sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked.

Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Masala Sauce

1. In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat oil and butter.

2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

3. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute.

4. Stir in ground spices: coriander, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder.

5. Add tomato puree and tomato paste. Cook until the oil begins to separate (about 10 minutes), stirring occasionally.

6. Pour in the cream, add salt, and simmer for 5 minutes on low heat.

7. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir well.

8. Sprinkle garam masala, cook for another 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh coriander.

How to Serve Chicken Tikka Masala

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Basmati Rice – The fluffy texture soaks up the curry beautifully.

Naan or Roti – Ideal for scooping up every last drop of the sauce.

Jeera Rice – Cumin-flavored rice adds a subtle twist.

Serve with sliced onions, lemon wedges, and perhaps a chilled glass of mango lassi.

Tips for the Best Chicken Tikka Masala

Use Chicken Thighs – They're more flavorful and stay juicy.

Marinate Longer – The more time the chicken spends in the marinade, the more flavorful it gets.

Control the Heat – Adjust chili levels to your preference.

Creamy Variations – Swap cream for coconut milk to make it dairy-free and slightly nutty in taste.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Tikka Masala is more than just a dish—it's a celebration of spice, culture, and comfort. Whether you're trying Indian cuisine for the first time or perfecting your go-to curry night recipe, this flavorful curry is sure to impress. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance: the tang of the tomatoes, the depth of the spices, and the richness of the cream all come together in a harmony of taste.

By making it at home, you can tailor the flavors to suit your preference, enjoy it fresh, and take pride in recreating a classic from scratch.

FAQs

Q: Is Chicken Tikka Masala spicy?

A: It can be! But you control the spice levels, so it can range from mild to fiery.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?

A: Absolutely. Use paneer (Indian cottage cheese), tofu, or roasted veggies instead of chicken.

Q: Can I use canned tomato sauce instead of fresh tomatoes?

A: Yes, canned tomato puree or crushed tomatoes work just fine.

If you enjoyed this Chicken Tikka Masala recipe, don’t forget to bookmark this page, share it with fellow foodies, and leave a comment below about your cooking experience!

Happy cooking!