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Cozy Chicken Tikka Masala

Experience the warmth of Cozy Chicken Tikka Masala, a comforting dish of tender chicken in a creamy spiced sauce that brings family and friends together.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Indian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the marinated chicken
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
  • 1 cup plain yogurt Can substitute with a plant-based alternative.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the sauce
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
For serving
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Rice or naan for serving Consider using fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.

Method
 

Marinate the Chicken
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat, cover, and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Sauté the Base
  1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. Then throw in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until aromatic.
Cook the Chicken
  1. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken starts to brown.
Create the Sauce
  1. Pour in the coconut milk and diced tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve
  1. Once cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with a side of steaming rice or warm naan.

Notes

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken longer—up to overnight works wonders! Ensure your garlic doesn’t burn by adding it after the onions have softened.