How to Prepare Chicken Tikka Masala

Rich, delicious and equally appreciated by hardcore Indian cuisine lovers as neophytes, chicken tikka masala is a true classic. It is popular not only in India, but throughout the Indian diaspora, from Great Britain to the United States. See what all the fuss is about by trying this recipe! It takes 30 minutes to prepare, 50 minutes to cook; it will be ready in 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice
• 2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 2 tbsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp. minced fresh ginger
• 4 tsp. salt, or to taste
• 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 4 long skewers
• 1 tbsp. butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, finely chopped
• 2 tsp. paprika
• 3 tsp. salt, or to taste
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, 2 tsp. cumin, cinnamon, cayenne, black pepper, ginger, and 4 tsp. salt. Stir in chicken, cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
2. Preheat a grill for high heat.
3. Lightly oil the grill grate. Thread chicken onto skewers, and discard marinade. Grill until juices run clear, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
4. Melt butter in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Saute garlic and jalapeno for 1 minute. Season with 2 teaspoons cumin, paprika, and 3 teaspoons salt. Stir in tomato sauce and cream. Simmer on low heat until sauce thickens, about 20 minutes. Add grilled chicken, and simmer for 10 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Tips & Warnings

• Serves 4.