Chicken Tikka Masala
Tender yogurt-marinated chicken simmers in a creamy tomato curry sauce flavored with garam masala, garlic, ginger, and warm spices. Serve with basmati rice or naan for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Prep: 20 min · Cook: 35 min · Yield: 4 · Method: Stovetop
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, boneless, skinless
- 0.75 cup plain yogurt
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
- 1.5 cups crushed tomatoes
- 0.75 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro
Cooking instructions
- Cut the chicken into 1½-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine it with the yogurt, garam masala, cumin, and 1 teaspoon of the salt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 8 hours. (about 15 min)
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed, and cook until browned on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a plate; it will finish cooking in the sauce. (about 8 min) — Medium-high heat
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened and lightly golden, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for 1 minute. (about 6 min) — Medium heat
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, paprika, cayenne, and remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Scrape up any browned bits, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook until slightly thickened, about 8 minutes. (about 8 min) — Gentle simmer
- Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and reaches 165°F in the thickest piece, about 7 minutes. (about 7 min) — Gentle simmer
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Warm for 2 minutes without boiling. Taste and adjust the salt, then scatter the cilantro over the curry. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan. (about 2 min) — Low heat