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Discover the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine with this Quick & Easy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe. This dish, known for its rich, creamy sauce and aromatic spices, brings a taste of tradition to your table without requiring hours of preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is designed for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Let’s delve into the ingredients and steps that make this dish a beloved favorite.

20-Minute Chicken Tikka Masala

Bring the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine to your dinner table with this Quick & Easy Chicken Tikka Masala recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish features tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce infused with aromatic spices. It's simple to prepare and can satisfy any craving for comfort food. Serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal. Experience the delicious fusion of British and Indian flavors with this beloved classic.

Ingredients
  

1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon garam masala

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon turmeric

1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream

Salt, to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Add the chicken pieces and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

      Add Spices: Stir in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Toast the spices for about 30 seconds to bring out their flavors.

        Combine with Tomatoes: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, stirring to combine with the aromatics and spices. Allow it to simmer for 2 minutes.

          Simmer the Sauce: Add the coconut milk (or heavy cream) to the skillet, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt to taste.

            Incorporate Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, heating the chicken through.

              Serve: Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over a bed of basmati rice or with warm naan. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings