Better Than Takeout Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: Better Than Takeout Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp salt; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 2 tbsp oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp cumin; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Elevate your dinner game with this Better Than Takeout Chicken Tikka Masala recipe. Creamy, spiced, and packed with flavor, this homemade version captures the essence of your favorite restaurant dish while being healthier and easier to make. Serve it over fluffy rice or with warm naan for a comforting, satisfying meal that you'll want to make again and again.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2025-11-26T14:36:00.717Z

This Chicken Tikka Masala is a labor of love that will impress anyone who sits at your table!

A Delightful Blend of Flavors

Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish that perfectly combines a medley of spices, resulting in a rich and aromatic curry. Each ingredient, from the warm garam masala to the tangy yogurt marinade, plays an essential role in developing depth and character. This homemade rendition not only brings these flavors to life but also allows you to customize the spice levels according to your preference. Embark on a culinary adventure and experience the bold flavors that make this dish a favorite among many.

Another standout feature of this Chicken Tikka Masala is its creamy texture, which envelopes each piece of tender chicken. The addition of heavy cream transforms the sauce into a luscious base that balances the spice without overpowering the palate. It's an indulgent touch that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality status right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

Perfect Pairings

One of the best ways to enjoy Chicken Tikka Masala is by pairing it with fluffy basmati rice or fresh naan bread. The rice acts as a perfect canvas to soak up the flavorful curry, while naan adds a lovely texture, ideal for scooping up the delicious sauce. For an added twist, consider preparing a side of cucumber raita: a refreshing yogurt-based condiment that complements the spices of the dish beautifully.

Vegetable side dishes are also great companions for this meal. Try serving sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, which not only add nutritional value but also provide a vibrant color contrast to the dish. The Earthiness of the vegetables balances the flavors of the Chicken Tikka Masala, resulting in a well-rounded dining experience.

Tips for the Best Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp salt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated

For the Sauce

2 tbsp oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala with rice or naan!

Cooking Steps

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, garlic, and ginger. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and sauté until fully cooked and slightly charred. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onion is translucent. Stir in crushed tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, and salt. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken back to the sauce, pour in the heavy cream, and stir. Let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to combine flavors.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Gather everyone and enjoy your delicious meal!

Nutritional Benefits

Not only does this Chicken Tikka Masala tantalize the taste buds, but it also packs a nutritious punch. Chicken thighs are rich in protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. Yogurt, a key ingredient in the marinade, contributes probiotics that promote gut health, making this dish a satisfying yet wholesome meal option.

By preparing this at home, you control the ingredients, allowing you to choose healthier options over processed ingredients often found in takeout versions. With the addition of fresh herbs and spices, this dish becomes a flavorful source of vitamins and minerals. Eating healthy doesn't mean sacrificing taste!

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers of Chicken Tikka Masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Warmer for lunch or dinner, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain the sauce's creamy consistency. Enjoying leftovers is a great way to savor the flavors even further, as they only become more pronounced with time.

If you wish to freeze the dish, it's best to do so without the cream. Store the cooled sauce and chicken in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat it on the stovetop, adding cream just before serving. This ensures the sauce stays velvety and fresh!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs are more flavorful and tender.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute chicken with chickpeas or paneer.