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creamy chicken tikka masala
Isla Marie

Chicken Tikka Masala

A rich, creamy chicken tikka masala made with yogurt-marinated chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-cream sauce. This restaurant-style favorite is deeply flavorful, comforting, and naturally gluten-free when made with clean ingredients.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Indian-Inspired
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika or Kashmiri chili powder
  • 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • Salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet or grill pan
  • Large sauté pan or saucepan
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, garlic, ginger, spices, and salt. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken until lightly charred and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In a large pan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and lightly golden.
  4. Stir in garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and paprika. Cook briefly until fragrant.
  5. Add tomato puree and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream until smooth.
  7. Add cooked chicken to the sauce and simmer gently for 5–10 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust salt or spice level as needed. Serve warm.

Video

Notes

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts work if not overcooked.
  • Do not boil the sauce after adding cream to prevent separation.
  • Coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version.