How To Make Chicken Tikka Masala Without Yogurt? Learn The Secret For A Restaurant-quality Dish At Home

Chicken tikka masala, a beloved Indian dish, has tantalized taste buds worldwide. Its creamy, flavorful sauce is typically thickened with yogurt, but for those with dietary restrictions or personal preferences, this recipe presents a delightful alternative: how to make chicken tikka masala without yogurt.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Masala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a vegan option)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

Making the Chicken Tikka:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to coat.
2. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.

Making the Masala Sauce:

1. In a separate large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes or until softened.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and sauté for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce:

1. Add the cooked chicken tikka to the masala sauce.
2. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is well-blended.

Finishing Touches:

1. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
2. Serve with rice, naan bread, or your favorite sides.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Tikka Masala Without Yogurt

• Marinate the chicken: This helps the chicken absorb the flavors and become tender.
• Use fresh ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the more flavorful the dish will be.
• Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your taste preferences.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will become dry and tough.
• Simmer the sauce: Simmering allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Tikka Masala Without Yogurt

This dish is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The chicken provides lean protein, while the tomatoes and onions are packed with antioxidants. The spices used in the dish have various health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and boosting immunity.

Variations

• Vegan Chicken Tikka Masala: Use tofu or plant-based chicken instead of chicken breast.
• Spicy Chicken Tikka Masala: Add more cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade and sauce.
• Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala: Use more heavy cream or coconut milk to make the sauce richer and creamier.

In a nutshell

With this recipe, you can now enjoy the tantalizing flavors of chicken tikka masala without the use of yogurt. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply prefer a different taste, this dish will satisfy your cravings. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use plain Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream or coconut milk?
A: Yes, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt for either of these ingredients.

Q: What can I serve with chicken tikka masala?
A: Chicken tikka masala pairs well with rice, naan bread, roti, or your favorite Indian sides.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Simply combine the chicken and sauce when you’re ready to serve.

Q: How long does chicken tikka masala last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored, chicken tikka masala can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze chicken tikka masala?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.