Description
Dive into a tantalizing culinary journey with our Chicken Tikka Masala recipe, a delightful fusion of historical Indian spices and modern cooking techniques. Originating from the vibrant cultural heritage of India, Garam Masala has been a cornerstone of Indian cuisine for generations. This warm and aromatic spice blend infuses our recipe with its distinct personality, creating a symphony of flavors that's both comforting and exhilarating. This dish pays homage to the rich tapestry of Indian flavors.
Ingredients:
6 garlic cloves, finely grated
4 teaspoons finely grated peeled ginger
4 teaspoons ground turmeric
2 teaspoons Garam Masala blend
2 teaspoons ground coriander
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 1/2 cups whole-milk Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon kosher flake salt
2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts
3 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup tomato paste
6 cardamom pods, crushed
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes
2 cups heavy cream
3/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro plus some for garnish
Steamed basmati rice
Directions:
Combine garlic, ginger, turmeric, garam masala, coriander, and cumin in a small bowl.
Whisk yogurt, salt, and half of spice mixture in a medium bowl; add chicken and turn to coat.
Cover and chill 4-6 hours.
Cover and chill remaining spice mixture.
Heat ghee in a large heavy pot over medium heat.
Add onion, tomato paste, cardamom, and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring often, until tomato paste has darkened and onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
Add remaining half of spice mixture and cook, stirring often, until bottom of pot begins to brown, about 4 minutes.
Add tomatoes with juices, crushing them with your hands as you add them. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, stirring often and scraping up browned bits from bottom of pot, until sauce thickens, 8-10 minutes.
Add cream and chopped cilantro. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens, 30-40 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat broiler. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack inside sheet.
Arrange chicken on rack and broil until chicken starts to blacken but not fully cooked, about 10 minutes.
Cut chicken into bite-size pieces, add to sauce, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through, 8-10 minutes.
Serve with rice and cilantro sprigs.
Chicken can be made 2 days ahead.
Reheat before serving.
