Chicken Tikka Masala – Creamy, Authentic, and Easy to Make

This Chicken Tikka Masala is rich, creamy, and bursting with warm, aromatic spices.

Tender marinated chicken is simmered in a bold tomato-based sauce and finished with a swirl of cream—perfect for spooning over fluffy rice or scooping with warm naan.

It’s comforting, crave-worthy, and better than your favorite Indian restaurant!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep, Layered Flavor: The yogurt marinade and spice blend create complex, savory depth.

Creamy, Comforting Sauce: A luscious mix of tomatoes and heavy cream.

Perfect for Weeknights or Dinner Parties: Impressive, yet surprisingly easy.

Customizable Heat: Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice level.

Pairs with All Your Favorites: Serve with rice, naan, or both!

Ingredient Highlights

Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, they soak up the marinade beautifully.

Yogurt Marinade: Tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor.

Aromatic Spices: Garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder create a bold, warming profile.

Tomatoes: Provide the base for the curry sauce.

Heavy Cream: Adds richness and balances the spices.

Fresh Coriander: For a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: Overnight is best, but even 30 minutes makes a difference.

Use Full-Fat Yogurt: It clings better to the chicken and keeps it tender.

Toast Your Spices: Blooming them in oil unlocks maximum aroma and flavor.

Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling the cream to prevent curdling.

Fresh Garlic & Ginger: Essential for authentic taste—skip the jarred stuff if possible.

How to Make Chicken Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine bite-sized chicken thigh pieces with plain yogurt.

Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes—or overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 6–8 minutes until soft and golden.

Step 3: Add Garlic, Ginger, and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute.

Then add garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder.

Cook the spices for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir well.

Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to deepen and thicken slightly.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken and all of the yogurt mixture to the skillet.

Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.

Cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 6: Stir in the Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.

Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes silky.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish with chopped fresh coriander right before serving.x

What to Serve With Chicken Tikka Masala

Steamed Basmati or Jasmine Rice

Homemade or Store-Bought Naan

Cucumber Raita or Yogurt Dip

Pickled Onions or Mango Chutney

Simple Green Salad with Lemon Dressing

Variations and Substitutions

Use Chicken Breast: Slightly leaner but still delicious.

Go Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free yogurt.

Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, peas, or bell peppers near the end.

Spice It Up: Add a diced green chili or more chili powder for heat.

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze: Freeze cooled leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Do I need to use chicken thighs?
They’re juicier and more flavorful, but chicken breast also works.

Is tikka masala spicy?
It’s mildly spicy—adjust chili powder to your taste.

Can I grill the marinated chicken first?
Yes! Grilling adds a smoky element similar to restaurant-style tikka.

What’s a good substitute for garam masala?
Try a mix of cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and cloves.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes—just check your spices and yogurt to be sure.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a larger skillet or pot to hold everything.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Chicken Tikka Masala is my go-to when I’m craving something cozy, rich, and full of spice.

It’s incredibly satisfying and easy to make with pantry staples.

The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fragrant spices come together in the most comforting way—total restaurant vibes at home!