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 Restaurant-Style Chicken Tikka Masala – Smoky, Spicy & Creamy Recipe

Meta Description: Learn how to make authentic Chicken Tikka Masala at home with juicy grilled chicken pieces simmered in a creamy tomato-based gravy. Perfect with naan or rice!

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📝 Introduction

Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the most iconic Indian dishes enjoyed worldwide. It's known for its perfectly grilled chicken chunks soaked in a buttery, spicy, and tangy tomato-based gravy. With its smoky aroma, rich flavor, and creamy texture, this dish makes for a restaurant-style experience right at home.

This version uses basic Indian kitchen spices and no artificial colors – just real flavor!

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🛒 Ingredients

For Chicken Tikka (Marination):

• 500g boneless chicken (thigh preferred)

• 1/2 cup thick curd

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tsp red chili powder (Kashmiri for color)

• 1/2 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1/2 tsp cumin powder

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Salt to taste

• 1 tbsp oil

• Skewers for grilling (optional)

For Masala Gravy:

• 2 tbsp butter or oil

• 1 bay leaf

• 2 onions, chopped

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 3 tomatoes (blended into puree)

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• 1/2 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1/2 tsp sugar

• Salt to taste

• 1/2 cup fresh cream

• 1/2 tsp kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves)

• Chopped coriander for garnish

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients.

2. Add chicken pieces and coat well.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

1. Skewer the chicken or lay them on a baking tray.

2. Grill at 200°C for 15–20 minutes or until slightly charred.

3. Alternatively, pan-fry on high flame until browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Masala Gravy

1. Heat butter in a pan. Add bay leaf and chopped onions.

2. Cook till golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté.

3. Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.

4. Add chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, salt, and sugar. Mix well.

Step 4: Combine & Simmer

1. Add grilled chicken tikka pieces to the gravy.

2. Mix and add 1/4 cup water if needed.

3. Simmer on low flame for 5–10 minutes.

4. Add cream, kasuri methi, and stir gently.

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🌟 Pro Tips

• Use charcoal smoke method for dhaba-style aroma.

• Add butter at the end for rich gloss.

• For smoky flavor, use a grill pan or tandoor.

• Adjust cream based on richness preferred.

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❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use leftover chicken?

A: Yes! Just grill it lightly again before adding to gravy.

Q: Is it too spicy?

A: No. It's flavorful with mild heat – reduce chili for lighter spice.

Q: Can I make it without cream?

A: Substitute with milk + a spoon of cashew paste for a creamy effect.