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Classic-Style Chicken Tikka Masala

Classic-Style Chicken Tikka Masala features tender chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce layered with warm spices and a hint of heat. Fragrant cumin, garam masala, and paprika create deep, restaurant-style flavor balanced by a splash of cream. It’s a comforting choice for dinner, perfect for serving with basmati rice or naan on a cozy weeknight or casual gathering.

  • Prep35 mins
  • Cook55 mins
  • Serves4
  • DifficultyMedium
Classic-Style Chicken Tikka Masala
  1. 1

    Make the chicken: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, garam masala, paprika, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and coriander. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours.

  2. 2

    Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Grease a rimmed baking sheet.

  3. 3

    Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange it on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.

  4. 4

    Bake in the preheated oven until browned and no longer pink inside, about 10 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should register at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Remove from the oven and set aside.

  5. 5

    Make the sauce: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and cook, stirring gently, until lightly toasted and aromatic, about 3 minutes. Add the onion; cook and stir until it begins to soften, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the chile peppers, garlic, and ginger; continue to cook and stir until the onion is browned, 15 to 20 minutes. Stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, and water; cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to break down, about 10 minutes.

  6. 6

    Add garam masala, coriander, turmeric, and salt, then stir in the chicken and cream until well combined; cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Garnish with cilantro.

About This Recipe

Classic Style Chicken Tikka Masala is an Indian dinner recipe made with 20 ingredients. It takes about 1 hr 30 mins, serves 4, and is rated medium. Key ingredients include Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper, Chicken Breast, and Fresh Cilantro. Each serving provides about 563.01 kcal, and is a good source of protein.

Recipe Questions

What is Classic-Style Chicken Tikka Masala?
It is an Indian recipe made with 20 ingredients, usually served for dinner or lunch.
What is Classic-Style Chicken Tikka Masala made of?
The main ingredients are Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper, Chicken Breast, Fresh Cilantro, Fresh Ginger. The full list of 20 is above.
How long does it take to make Classic-Style Chicken Tikka Masala?
About 1 hr 30 mins in total: 35 mins to prepare and 55 mins to cook.
How many calories are in one serving?
One serving provides about 563.01 kcal. The full nutrition breakdown is above.
Is Classic-Style Chicken Tikka Masala easy to make?
This recipe is rated medium, with 20 ingredients and 6 steps.

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