Simple Make-At-Home Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that combines tender marinated chicken pieces with a rich, flavourful tomato-based sauce. Using Mumtaz Chicken Tikka Marinade simplifies the preparation process, allowing you to enjoy this classic meal with minimal effort. Here's a straightforward recipe to guide you:

Ingredients:

• 500gm cubed boneless chicken thighs (you can use boneless chicken breast as well)
• 1 jar (500g) Mumtaz Chicken Tikka Marinade
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (400g) tomato sauce or passata
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 200ml heavy cream or coconut cream
• Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves, chopped, for garnish
• Salt, to taste
• Cooked basmati rice or naan bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

   • In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with half of the Mumtaz Chicken Tikka Marinade. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; for optimal flavour, marinate for 2 hours or overnight.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken until browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In the same pan, add the remaining oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and golden brown, about 5 minutes.
   • Add in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Let it cook until fragrant.
   • Add the garam masala, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds to toast the spices, releasing their aromas.

4. Combine and Simmer:

   • Pour in the tomato sauce or passata, stirring to combine with the spices and onions. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
   • Add the remaining half of the Mumtaz Chicken Tikka Marinade to the sauce, stirring well to incorporate.
   • Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan, along with any accumulated juices. Stir to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavours.

5. Finish the Dish:

   • Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream, mixing until the sauce achieves a creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
   • Allow the curry to simmer gently for another 5 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish the Chicken Tikka Masala with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
   • Serve hot over a bed of steamed basmati rice or alongside warm naan bread.

Tips:

• Grilling Option: For an added smoky flavour, consider grilling the marinated chicken pieces until they develop a slight char before adding them to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your preferred level of spiciness.

By utilising Mumtaz Chicken Tikka Marinade, this recipe streamlines the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy a flavourful Chicken Tikka Masala with ease. The marinade's authentic blend of spices ensures a rich and satisfying taste in every bite.