The Secret To Restaurant-quality Chicken Tikka Masala: How To Make It Using Paste

Craving the irresistible flavors of chicken tikka masala without the hassle of scratch-made marinade? Look no further! This step-by-step guide will show you how to create this beloved dish using the convenience of chicken tikka masala paste.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup chicken tikka masala paste
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, chicken tikka masala paste, yogurt, lime juice, and salt.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Set aside the cooked chicken.

Making the Sauce:

1. In a large saucepan, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, heavy cream, garam masala, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Return the cooked chicken to the saucepan with the sauce.
2. Stir gently to combine and heat through.
3. Serve over rice or naan bread.

Tips for the Perfect Tikka Masala:

• For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for longer.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat.
• Adjust the spices to your taste.
• Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, naan bread, or raita.

Variations:

• Add vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas.
• Use different types of chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks.
• Experiment with different chicken tikka masala pastes for a variety of flavors.

Ending Notes:

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of chicken tikka masala with this effortless method using paste. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner seeking culinary inspiration, this guide will empower you to create a restaurant-worthy dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use other types of paste besides chicken tikka masala paste?
A: Yes, you can use other curry pastes, such as korma or vindaloo, to create different flavor profiles.

Q: How can I make the sauce spicier?
A: Add more garam masala or red chili flakes to the sauce to increase the heat level.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating.