Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish that consists of marinated and grilled chicken pieces served in a creamy tomato-based sauce. It is widely enjoyed both in India and around the world. Here's a basic recipe to make Chicken Tikka Masala:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tikka:

• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken pieces (usually thigh or breast meat)
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons garam masala (a blend of Indian spices)
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons minced ginger
• Salt to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and sugar to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients for the chicken: yogurt, lemon juice, oil, spices, garlic, ginger, and salt.

2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Make sure the chicken pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but longer marination, even overnight, is better.

3. Preheat your grill or broiler. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and grill or broil until fully cooked and slightly charred on the outside.

4. While the chicken is cooking, heat oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.

5. Add minced garlic and ginger to the onions and cook for a couple of minutes.

6. Add the spices (garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder) and cook for a minute to release their flavors.

7. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

8. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Simmer the sauce for another 5-10 minutes until it thickens.

9. Season the sauce with salt and sugar to taste. Adjust the spices to your preference.

10. Add the grilled chicken to the sauce, and let it simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

11. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and accompanied by rice or naan bread.

This classic dish is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by varying the amount of chili powder or by adding some chopped green chilies. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tikka Masala!