Chicken Tikka Masala

The Ultimate Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

There are few dishes that command the kind of devotion that Chicken Tikka Masala does. Creamy, smoky, and infused with aromatic spices, this dish is a staple in my kitchen—and for good reason. It’s the perfect balance of heat, richness, and depth, making it a go-to for cozy nights in or an impressive dinner for guests.

My Love Affair with Chicken Tikka Masala

Growing up, my dad made the best Chicken Tikka Masala. The rich aroma of spices filling the kitchen, the perfectly charred chicken, and the creamy, tomato-based sauce—it was pure comfort on a plate. That first bite was more than just a meal; it was an experience that stayed with me. Ever since, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that same magic at home. After countless tweaks and trials, I’ve finally landed on a recipe that brings back those cherished memories and rivals even the best restaurant versions.

What’s the Difference Between Chicken Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken?

At first glance, Chicken Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken might seem like close cousins, both featuring tender chicken in a rich, spiced tomato-based sauce. However, the key differences lie in their origins and flavor profiles. Chicken Tikka Masala, believed to have been created in the UK, is bolder and spicier, with a robust, smoky depth from marinated and grilled chicken tikka pieces simmered in a heavily spiced tomato-based sauce. Butter Chicken (or Murgh Makhani), which hails from North India, is creamier and slightly sweeter, with a silkier texture thanks to generous amounts of butter and cream. While both dishes are beloved worldwide, Chicken Tikka Masala delivers a punch of spice, whereas Butter Chicken leans into its rich, buttery smoothness—so choosing between them depends on whether you crave heat or indulgent comfort.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are a few key elements that elevate this Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe above the rest:

• The Marinade – A yogurt-based marinade with warm spices ensures the chicken is tender, flavorful, and juicy.
• The Tikka – Cooking the chicken at high heat creates that signature smoky, charred flavor.
• The Sauce – A slow-simmered, spice-infused tomato sauce with a touch of cream results in pure silkiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses staple Indian spices and pantry essentials. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Marinade:

• Chicken breast, Greek yogurt, garam masala, coriander, cumin, turmeric, kasuri methi, Kashmiri red chili powder, salt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, sunflower oil.

For the Tikka Masala:

• Sunflower oil, red onions, red chili, salt, ginger paste, garlic paste, garam masala, Kashmiri red chili powder, cumin, coriander, sugar, cherry tomatoes, hot water, double cream, kasuri methi.

For Garnish:

• Fresh coriander leaves (optional).

The Step-by-Step Process

Making Chicken Tikka Masala at home is easier than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a masterpiece on your hands.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

The magic starts with a well-seasoned marinade. The longer the chicken sits in the spiced yogurt mixture, the deeper the flavors. I always recommend marinating overnight, but if you’re short on time, a few hours will still yield great results.

Step 2: Prepare the Tikka Masala Sauce

Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden, then add the spices to bloom their flavors. The cherry tomatoes add natural sweetness, balancing the heat and depth of the dish. Simmering and blending the sauce creates that smooth, restaurant-quality texture.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Cooking the chicken at high heat—whether in the oven or on a stovetop—gives it that irresistible char. The broiler is your best friend for achieving those slightly crispy, caramelized edges.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Once the sauce is rich and flavorful, stir in cream for that signature luscious texture. Add the cooked chicken, sprinkle some kasuri methi, and let it all meld together for a few minutes. The result? A dish that is both bold and comforting.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Chicken Tikka Masala with steaming hot basmati rice, pillowy naan, or buttery parathas for the ultimate experience. Garnish with fresh coriander and a swirl of cream for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Tikka Masala

• Marination Matters – The longer, the better! Overnight marination gives the deepest flavor.
• Blend for Smoothness – If you prefer a silkier sauce, blend before adding the cream.
• Control the Heat – Reduce Kashmiri chili for a milder version or add cayenne for extra kick.
• Make It Ahead – The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to two months.