How to Make a Delicious Chicken Tikka Masala: A Family Favorite

Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most popular dishes in Indian cuisine and has gained worldwide popularity over the years. This rich, tangy, and creamy dish combines tender chicken pieces marinated with spices, grilled to perfection, and then simmered in a thick tomato-based sauce.

The origins of Chicken Tikka Masala can be traced back to Britain in the 1940s or 1950s. It’s said that Indian immigrants introduced chicken tikka (chicken pieces marinated with spices) to local British cuisine, which eventually evolved into this rich curry. In fact, some claim it may not have been authentically "Indian" at all but rather a creation of the British themselves. Regardless of its birthplace, Chicken Tikka Masala has become an integral part of global culinary heritage.

This recipe makes for approximately 4 servings and takes about 1 hour to prepare from start to finish. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 small onion, chopped finely
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 green cardamoms
• 2-inch cinnamon stick
• 5 whole black peppercorns
• 6 bay leaves
• 4 medium tomatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• Salt to taste (about 1 tsp)
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil or melted butter
• Fresh cilantro for garnishing
• Dough for naan bread, optional

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of garlic, finely chopped onion, and spices such as ground coriander, garam masala, salt, black peppercorns, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and green cardamoms. Let these flavors infuse for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to ensure the meat absorbs all the rich spices.

Step 2: Grilling the Chicken

Sear the marinated chicken pieces in a hot pan with oil until they are well seared on all sides. This step adds that delicious charred flavor which is characteristic of any tikka dish. Once done, transfer the grilled chicken to an oven tray or directly grill them under high heat for about 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, add grated tomatoes and cook until they break down into a smooth paste. Add the remaining spices including ground coriander and garam masala to this tomato mixture. This base gives your curry its signature red color and taste.

Step 4: Combining Chicken and Sauce

Add the grilled chicken back into the saucepan with the prepared gravy. Mix well and cook until the flavors meld together. If desired, you can serve this with naan bread or rice for a more authentic feel.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, roast your spices in a dry pan before grinding them into powder. This technique brings out the natural oils and enhances the aroma of your dish.
• If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of hot spices used or replace some with milder ones like cumin seeds or fennel seeds for additional depth without heat.
• Use fresh herbs such as cilantro and mint to garnish. These not only add color but also provide freshness that complements the richness of the curry.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Warm naan bread or basmati rice to accompany your curry for a complete meal.
2. For a more substantial option, serve it with a side salad to balance the richness.
3. For an authentic taste, pair it with yogurt mixed with cucumber and fresh mint known as raita. It helps cut through some of the spices in the dish making it milder but no less flavorful!

Health Benefits & Nutritional Information

Chicken Tikka Masala provides a rich source of protein due to its lean chicken content. Additionally, the various vegetables and herbs used contribute essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C from tomatoes and iron from spinach. However, it is important to note that this dish can be quite high in fat if made with too much oil or butter during grilling. Moderation is key!

To enjoy the health benefits while minimizing unhealthy fats, consider using healthier cooking methods such as air frying instead of deep frying. You could also opt for grilled chicken or broil it at home rather than using restaurant-style tandoori grilling which tends to be oilier.

Remember that every bite of Chicken Tikka Masala brings together the best elements of Indian cuisine - bold flavors, spices, and rich textures all wrapped up in one dish. Whether enjoyed at home or during a special dinner out, Chicken Tikka Masala remains a timeless favorite for many!