Chicken Tikka Masala
What Started it all:
chicken
Let’s get one thing straight: if you want to serve up a proper Chicken Tikka Masala, you need to bring your A-game. This dish is a classic, bursting with flavors that’ll transport your taste buds straight to India. Ready to impress? Let’s do this!
Ingredients
- 300g chicken breast, diced
- 150g plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 100ml double cream
- Fresh coriander, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Toss in the chicken pieces and ensure they’re well coated. Cover it and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour – overnight is even better!
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and just cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside. Don’t overcook it – you’re not making rubber!
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and toss in the chopped onion. Sauté until it’s soft and golden. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute. The smell should be intoxicating!
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chopped tomatoes and bring it to a simmer. Let that bubble away for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Cream it Up: Reduce the heat, and stir in the double cream. Return the chicken to the pan, ensuring it’s coated in that glorious sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve it Right: Serve your Chicken Tikka Masala hot, garnished with fresh coriander. Pair it with basmati rice or naan – but whatever you do, don’t skimp on the sauce!
There you have it! A Chicken Tikka Masala that’s bursting with flavor, perfect for two. Remember, cooking is about passion and precision. Don’t just throw things together; make it sing! Now get out there and show that kitchen who’s boss!