This Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful single serving dish with tender marinated chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-cream sauce. Ready in 30 minutes.
Prep Time1 hourhr10 minutesmins
Cook Time20 minutesmins
Total Time1 hourhr30 minutesmins
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Indian
Diet: Gluten Free
Keyword: chicken tikka masala, garam masala, masala, tikka masala
In a mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients. Add the chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Cook the Chicken
In a 10-inch skillet over medium heat, heat the oil. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and sear for 2 minutes, until lightly charred on one side.
Flip the chicken pieces and sear the other side. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked yet. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the onions and salt. Cook until the onions are soft and golden.
Stir in the garlic, cumin, garam masala, paprika, chili powder, ginger, and sugar. Cook for 30 seconds to release their flavors.
Add the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the cream and return the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Finish the Dish
Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water.
Serve with rice or naan bread.
Notes
Read Before You Start: Review the full recipe and Ingredient Notes, and check the step-by-step photos. This will help everything come together smoothly.
Marinate for Flavor: The longer the chicken marinates, the better. Overnight is ideal for deep flavor.
Adjust the Heat: Start with less chili powder if you’re sensitive to spice. Add more if you prefer a hotter dish.