This easy Chicken Tikka Masala is my take on this classic and traditional Indian recipe that’s made with all the deep flavors of a traditional Indian creamy curry. The secret is that it’s made with no cream as it gets its creaminess from yogurt and milk.
If you ask a British person what their favorite food is, one of the most popilar answers will be curry. But it must be an Indian curry, the most popular takeaway food in the UK.
So, instead of cream, I use yogurt and butter (cream’s close cousin) to get that rich and velvety tomato gravy for my Chicken Tikka Masala. If you are one of those people who love cream in their Chicken Tikka, then swap out the yogurt and add it. It’s all good.
U.K gets its first Indian restaurant
Over 200 years ago the first ‘curry house’ opened in London and it’s been a British food staple ever since. Since then, Indian cuisine has become a $5 billion a year industry.
Chicken Tikka Masala – Step by Step
Chicken breasts are marinated in yogurt and Indian spices.
While the chicken marinates, onions are softened in oil and cooked garlic, ginger and more Indian spices. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne, paprika or red pepper flakes.
Tomato paste is added to the onions for the start of the rich tomato flavor.
Milk, tomato puree/passata and the chicken is then added and simmered to tender perfection.
$2 Chicken Tikka Masala | But Cheaper
FAQ
What is a substitute for heavy cream in tikka masala?
Can I replace cream with yogurt?
Can I use Greek yoghurt in curry instead of cream?
How to use yogurt in Indian cooking?
How to thicken chicken tikka masala?
You can also add a thickening agent like tomato paste, cashew paste, or a tablespoon of cream or yogurt to achieve the desired consistency. Too spicy: If your chicken tikka masala turns out too spicy, it can overpower the flavors. To reduce the heat, add a tablespoon of yogurt or cream to mellow down the spice level.
What is a substitute of garam masala?
Garam masala is a combination of cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, black cumin seeds, coriander seeds. Sometimes anise seeds are also added. Some of the substitutes are curry leaves powder, condiments and roasted dal powders with dry coconut powder.
What to eat with chicken tikka masala?
Tikka Masala Tacos: Fill soft tortillas with chicken tikka masala, and garnish with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime juice. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of mint chutney for a cool contrast.
Is chicken tikka masala healthy?
Chicken Tikka Masala is the most popular Indian dish, but it’s not very waistline friendly as it’s loaded with heavy cream. For this recipe, I replaced the cream with milk and yogurt. Switching cream for milk makes this easy Chicken Tikka Masala healthier and it turns out delicious every time.