How To Make Next Level Chicken Tikka Masala

Take Your Taste Buds on a Flavorful Journey with Next Level Chicken Tikka Masala

There’s something truly magical about the rich and aromatic flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala. This classic Indian dish is loved and enjoyed by people all around the world. But why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your culinary skills and create a next level Chicken Tikka Masala that will make your taste buds dance with joy?

An Introduction to Chicken Tikka Masala

If you’ve never tried Chicken Tikka Masala before, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. This dish consists of succulent pieces of chicken marinated in a yogurt-based marinade, known as the tikka. The chicken is then cooked in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with a blend of aromatic Indian spices.

Ingredients for Next Level Chicken Tikka Masala

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure you’re equipped with the right ingredients for your next level Chicken Tikka Masala:

• 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 cup of plain yogurt (Greek yogurt works great too).
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced.
• 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger.
• 2 teaspoons of ground cumin.
• 2 teaspoons of ground coriander.
• 1 teaspoon of ground paprika.
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric.
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference).
• Salt to taste.
• 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
• 1 large onion, finely chopped.
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste.
• 1 cup of canned crushed tomatoes.
• 1 cup of heavy cream.
• A handful of fresh cilantro leaves for garnish.

Preparing Next Level Chicken Tikka Masala

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s get to the exciting part – making the next level Chicken Tikka Masala:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, ground turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (but overnight is even better for maximum flavor).
3. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and thread them onto skewers if using a grill.
4. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it is cooked through and has developed a beautiful charred flavor. If using a broiler, place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and broil for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skewers (if using) and set aside.
6. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it turns golden brown and caramelized.
7. Add the tomato paste to the skillet and cook for a minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning.
8. Next, add the crushed tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
9. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
10. Add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
11. Garnish your next level Chicken Tikka Masala with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Get ready to savor the deliciousness of your homemade next level Chicken Tikka Masala! You can serve it with fragrant basmati rice, naan bread, or even roti for a complete, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Cooking up a next level Chicken Tikka Masala at home is an experience that will elevate your culinary skills and impress your taste buds. With the right ingredients and a little time, you can recreate the flavors of this popular Indian dish in the comfort of your kitchen. So, why settle for ordinary when you can take your taste buds on a flavorful journey?

Try this recipe and let the enticing aromas and delightful flavors of next level Chicken Tikka Masala transport you to culinary bliss. Your friends and family will be begging for more!