Quick Chicken Tikka Masala
If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet quick to prepare, look no further than this Quick Chicken Tikka Masala. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Indian cuisine with a beautiful blend of spices, creamy yogurt, and tender chicken, all cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice or naan. Let’s dive in and see how you can whip up this delicious meal in no time!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in about 30 minutes!
- Bold, authentic flavors that are easy to achieve.
- Uses simple, everyday ingredients that you may already have on hand.
- Versatile—great for serving with rice, naan, or even over a salad.
- Can easily be adjusted for spice levels to suit your taste.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 1/2-inch knob ginger, peeled
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 large yellow onion, peeled
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 1/2 Tbsp garam masala spice blend, divided
- Salt, to taste
- 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 1/2 tsp ground paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, more or less to taste
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (fat-free or any kind will work fine)
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, for garnish
Recommended Tools
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the onions, garlic, and ginger.
- Large Skillet or Pan: To cook the chicken and sauce together.
- Food Processor or Grater: To finely chop garlic, ginger, and onion for a smooth sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Quick Chicken Tikka Masala Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by finely chopping the ginger, garlic, and yellow onion using a food processor or a grater. This will help them blend seamlessly into the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with salt and 1 tablespoon of garam masala. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, ground paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well and let it cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 10 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Creaminess
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Greek yogurt and lemon juice. This will give the sauce its signature creaminess and tang. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving. Enjoy your Quick Chicken Tikka Masala with rice, naan, or your favorite side!
Seasonal Twists
- Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Summer: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for added crunch.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash for a sweet and savory combination.
- Winter: Serve with spiced rice or a warm naan to comfort during chilly nights.
Cook’s Commentary
This Quick Chicken Tikka Masala is one of those recipes that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability—feel free to swap out the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version. The garam masala is key to achieving that authentic flavor, so don’t skip it! And remember, the spice levels can always be adjusted to suit your taste buds. Consider this recipe a base to build upon, and get creative!
Make-Ahead & Storage
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving. If you’d like to freeze it, let the masala cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when ready to enjoy!
Quick Chicken Tikka Masala FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with boneless skinless thighs or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper, or add some chopped green chilies along with the chicken for an extra kick.
What should I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?
This dish is typically served with basmati rice, but you can also enjoy it with naan, roti, or even over a fresh salad!
Keep Cooking
Before You Go
If you’re a fan of flavorful dishes that don’t require a ton of time in the kitchen, this Quick Chicken Tikka Masala is a must-try! Its rich, creamy sauce and aromatic spices are sure to transport you straight to your favorite Indian restaurant, all from the comfort of your home. Don’t forget to share your creations and enjoy the culinary journey! Happy cooking!
Quick Chicken Tikka Masala
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by finely chopping the ginger, garlic, and yellow onion using a food processor or a grater. This will help them blend seamlessly into the sauce.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with salt and 1 tablespoon of garam masala. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the tomato paste, ground paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well and let it cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 10 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Greek yogurt and lemon juice. This will give the sauce its signature creaminess and tang. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving. Enjoy your Quick Chicken Tikka Masala with rice, naan, or your favorite side!
Notes
- Feel free to swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Adjust spice levels by increasing cayenne pepper or adding green chilies.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
