Tired Of Bland Chicken Tikka Masala? Here’s How To Make It Taste Like The Takeaway!

Chicken Tikka Masala, an aromatic and flavorful dish originating from the Indian subcontinent, has become an iconic culinary delight enjoyed worldwide. While many relish the convenience of ordering it from takeaways, it’s entirely possible to recreate this restaurant-style masterpiece in your own kitchen. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of making Chicken Tikka Masala like the takeaway, ensuring you enjoy the same tantalizing flavors in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tikka:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Masala Sauce:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground red chili powder (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Cooking the Chicken Tikka:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Masala Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until softened.
2. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, heavy cream, tomato paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce:

1. Add the cooked chicken to the masala sauce and stir to combine.
2. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Serving the Chicken Tikka Masala:

1. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot with rice, naan bread, or roti.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green chilies for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Authenticity:

• Use high-quality spices for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have garam masala, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
• For a deeper flavor, use full-fat coconut milk and heavy cream.
• Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your taste preferences.
• For a smoky flavor, cook the chicken tikka in a tandoor oven or on a grill.

Variations:

• Butter Chicken: Add 1/2 cup of unsalted butter to the masala sauce for a richer flavor.
• Saag Chicken: Add 1 cup of chopped spinach to the masala sauce for a vibrant green color and added nutrients.
• Paneer Tikka Masala: Replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a vegetarian alternative.

FAQ:

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, but the flavor will be slightly less intense.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add more red chili powder or chopped green chilies to the masala sauce.

3. What can I do if the sauce is too thin?
Simmer the sauce for longer, or add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to thicken it.

4. How long can I store the Chicken Tikka Masala?
Store the Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze the Chicken Tikka Masala?
Yes, you can freeze the Chicken Tikka Masala for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

The Bottom Line:

With this detailed guide, you now possess the culinary knowledge to create Chicken Tikka Masala like the takeaway in the comfort of your own kitchen. By following the steps outlined above and experimenting with different variations, you can impress your family and friends with this flavorful and authentic dish. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the heart of Indian cuisine.