Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Hi friends,

Today, I want to share a recipe that will take you on a journey, one full of flavors, incredibly indulgent, and honestly easy to make. Sound good?

Here’s my express Chicken Tikka Masala!

Why I Love Sharing Asian Recipes

For those of you who have been following me for a long time, or if you’re just discovering the blog, you know I love Asian cuisine. I try to regularly share recipes from this incredible part of the world, adapting them to suit our taste buds. That’s why, as you’ll see in the recipe steps, I’ve made chili optional in this version.

I wanted to stay true to the recipe that inspired me, which you can find on the Annas’ Family Kitchen blog, while making sure my guests didn’t end up with burning mouths. So, I skipped the chili, but if you want to add some, you’ll know exactly how much to use. 😉

Other Asian Recipes to Explore

For reference, here are some other Asian recipes you’ll find on the blog:

Sichuan Gong Bao stir-fried chicken

Creamy Romanesco curry

Glazed pork shanks

Caramelized pork with sesame seeds

Vegetable samosas

Tom Yam Kai soup (with green curry)

Red curry with potatoes

Lamb massaman with red curry

Vegetable curry

Shrimp Pad Thai

Tom Yam Kung shrimp soup

The Origins of Chicken Tikka Masala

The origins of this dish, with its Indian and Pakistani influences, are somewhat debated. Few dishes have as hybrid a history as chicken tikka masala, one of the most popular dishes in Britain. In fact, some even claim it to be the UK’s national dish, embodying its cultural melting pot.

Was it created in the UK or in South Asia? Some believe chicken tikka masala originated in Bangladesh, others say Punjab in northwestern India, while some claim it was invented in Glasgow, Scotland, by a Pakistani chef. (Source: Radio Canada)

Regardless of its origins, this dish is incredibly easy to make, you can whip it up in just a few minutes and serve it ideally with basmati rice. I prepare it in two ways: either by cutting the chicken fillets into large cubes (2-3 cm), which is the quickest method and ensures super tender meat, or by shaping the fillets into chicken meatballs. Then, I don’t add anything to the minced chicken, it’s just a different presentation that I find a bit prettier.

Chicken is my favorite choice of meat

Chicken is one of the most popular sources of protein around the world, and for good reason. It can play an important role in a balanced diet while remaining versatile, affordable, and easy to cook.

One of the main benefits of chicken is its high-quality protein content. Protein helps build and maintain muscles, supports recovery after physical activity, and contributes to overall health. A serving of chicken provides essential amino acids that the body needs every day.

Chicken is also naturally rich in important nutrients such as B vitamins, which help the body produce energy, as well as minerals like phosphorus and selenium. These nutrients contribute to normal body functions and support overall well-being.

When prepared with healthy cooking methods such as roasting, grilling, or baking, chicken can be a relatively lean source of protein, especially when choosing skinless chicken breast. Combined with vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, it fits perfectly into a balanced meal.

Another advantage is its versatility. Chicken can be used in salads, soups, stir-fries, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and countless family recipes. Its mild flavor pairs well with herbs, spices, vegetables, and sauces from cuisines around the world.

Including chicken regularly as part of a varied diet can help support a healthy lifestyle while providing satisfying and nutritious meals. The key, as always, is balance, variety, and enjoying it alongside plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other wholesome foods.

Tools You’ll Need

Essential utensils:

• A medium-sized bowl to prepare the curry paste
• An immersion blender or regular blender
• A large sauté pan or skillet
• A cutting board
• A sharp paring knife

So, are your taste buds tingling? Are you already tying your apron strings?

The recipe, Chef!

Print Recipe

Express Chicken Tikka Masala

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Dîner – indienne

Serves: 6 Difficulty: Easy Price: $

Prep Time: 10 min – Cooking Time: 30 min

Ingredients

• Curry Paste
• 1 onion
• 3 red chillis deseeded (optional)
• 8 cm ginger peeled
• 3 garlic cloves peeled
• Bunch coriander, stalks included
• 1 tbsp tomato puree
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp turmeric
• 2 tbsp ground cumin
• 2 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp Masala spices
• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 tbsp vegetal oil
• 1 tbsp water
• Chicken
• 1kg diced chicken breast
• 1/2 onion
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp vegetal oil
• 400 g tomato pulp
• 200 g Greek Yogurt
• 1 lemon or lime

Instructions

Curry Paste

1

Add all ingredients in a bowl.

2

Blitz together all ingredients, until homogeneous.

Chicken

3

Add the chicken cubes to the curry paste until well coated.

4

Colour your chopped onions and grated garlic with the oil for 2-3 minutes in a sauté pan.

5

Add to the pan with the onion and garlic.

6

Add the tomato pulp and simmer for 25 minutes.

7

At the end of cooking, stir in the Greek Yogurt and lemon juice.

8

Serve.

For the recipe in French, go here.

Chicken Tikka Masala: Frequently Asked Questions

Is tikka masala spicy vs butter chicken?

Tikka masala is generally spicier than butter chicken, which is milder and creamier. You can adjust spice levels to your taste.

What goes in a chicken tikka masala?

Chicken tikka masala typically includes marinated chicken, a spiced tomato-based sauce, and cream or yogurt for richness.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making chicken tikka masala?

Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender, and don’t skip marinating for maximum flavor.

Is chicken tikka masala healthy?

Chicken tikka masala can be part of a balanced meal, but its cream and butter content may make it calorie-dense. Adjust ingredients for a lighter version.

You might also love these recipes: Easy Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemon, Classic Roast Chicken Recipe with Simple Tips, Authentic Greek Chicken Souvlaki Skewers.