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Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular dish that marries the vibrant flavours of Indian cuisine with the comfort of British culinary tradition. It is a favourite in many households, known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender pieces of marinated chicken. Perfect for a family dinner or a cosy night in, this easy recipe simplifies the process, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 150g plain yoghurt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 green chilli, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 400g tin of chopped tomatoes
• 200ml double cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• Fresh coriander, for garnish
• Cooked basmati rice or naan bread, to serve

Instructions

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yoghurt, vegetable oil, lemon juice, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cayenne pepper. This mixture will create a flavourful marinade.

2. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for maximum flavour.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan oven 180°C) or 400°F. Line a baking tray with foil for easy cleanup.

2. Spread the marinated chicken pieces on the prepared baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred at the edges. Keep some juices from the baking tray for the sauce later, if desired.

Preparing the Sauce:

1. While the chicken is baking, heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until softened and golden.

2. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilli (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, and smoked paprika to the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to toast the spices.

4. Pour in the chopped tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the double cream, mixing well to create a rich, creamy sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water or chicken stock to reach your desired consistency.

Bringing It All Together:

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and add it directly to the sauce, along with any reserved juices. Stir well to coat the chicken in the sauce, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to absorb all the flavours.

2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices according to your preferences. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala warm with fluffy basmati rice or accompanied by warm naan bread for a delightful dining experience. A side of poppadoms and a simple cucumber raita can also elevate the meal.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings the flavours of India to your kitchen without the fuss. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious dish that your whole family will love. Enjoy your culinary journey and the delightful taste of this beloved classic!