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Better Than Takeout Chicken Tikka Masala

Better Than Takeout Chicken Tikka Masala

Abby Marlow
This Better Than Takeout Chicken Tikka Masala is creamy, spiced, and full of comforting flavor. Tender chicken simmers in a rich tomato-cream sauce, perfect for pairing with rice or naan. Beginner-friendly and customizable, this recipe brings restaurant flavor straight to your home kitchen.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine British-Indian, Indian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into 1" pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ white onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger shredded
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon coriander
  • 20 oz tomato puree
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup water
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, mix chicken with yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes or overnight.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook marinated chicken for 4–5 minutes, stirring regularly. Remove and set aside.
  • Add butter and onion to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and coriander. Cook for 1 more minute.
  • Reduce heat to low. Add tomato puree, chili powder, and salt, stirring to combine.
  • Stir in heavy cream, sugar, and water until smooth.
  • Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens and chicken is fully cooked.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Notes

For richer flavor, marinate the chicken overnight before cooking your Better Than Takeout Chicken Tikka Masala. To make it dairy-free, replace yogurt and cream with coconut-based alternatives for a creamy, plant-based twist.
Nutrition (per serving, estimated)
Calories: 450
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 820mg
Sugar: 7g
Keyword better than takeout, chicken tikka masala, creamy chicken curry, easy dinner, Indian curry recipe