Quick Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

If you’re craving something rich, flavorful, and just downright comforting, I’ve got the perfect dish for you. This Quick Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is one of those meals I turn to when I want big flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. I absolutely love how the creamy, spiced sauce melds with tender chicken, and you’ll find that it’s a total crowd-pleaser—even on a busy weeknight.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Quick Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe are easy to find and work together to create a perfectly balanced, richly spiced dish. I’ll share why each one is important to your success, plus a few of my favorite tips.

• Chicken breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless breasts because they stay tender and cook quickly, but thighs work well too if you want juicier meat.
• Masala paste: This homemade blend of spices, onion, garlic, and ginger is where the magic starts—fresh is always better than store-bought.
• Plain yogurt: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a mild tang that balances the spices beautifully.
• Oil: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola—helps brown the chicken perfectly without smoking up your kitchen.
• Tomato puree: Gives the sauce its base and subtle sweetness; canned puree works great for consistency.
• Heavy cream or coconut milk: Both add richness, but I like coconut milk when I want a dairy-free twist.
• Kosher salt: Use it to season gradually and bring out all the flavors without overpowering.
• Rice: Basmati is my go-to—it’s fragrant and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top brings brightness and that classic pop of color you want for garnish.

Variations

I love personalizing this Quick Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe depending on what I have on hand or who I’m cooking for. Don’t hesitate to tweak the spice level or swap ingredients to make it truly yours.

• Dairy-free: I swapped heavy cream for coconut milk when friends visited who avoid dairy, and honestly, it was just as delicious.
• Heat level adjustment: If you like things spicy, add more cayenne to the masala paste—I always do a little extra for myself.
• Vegetarian option: Try chickpeas or hearty veggies like cauliflower in place of chicken; the sauce is so good it works every time.
• Gluten-free: This recipe naturally is, but double-check your spices just to be safe if you’re serving someone sensitive.

How to Make Quick Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up That Flavor-Packed Masala Paste

Begin by pulsing the onions, garlic, ginger, and spices into a smooth paste using a food processor. This is where your kitchen starts filling up with those mouthwatering aromas—you can pretty much guess dinner’s going to be amazing. I like to make extra and freeze it in small portions so I can pull it out on a busy night and have authentic flavor ready to go in minutes.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces and mix with a couple tablespoons of that masala paste and the yogurt. Pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes. I used to skip marinating, but I learned it really helps keep the chicken juicy and tender, plus it deepens the flavor.

Step 3: Cook Your Rice and Brown the Chicken

Start cooking the rice as per package instructions — while that’s going, heat a large skillet with some oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces in batches without stirring too much so they get a nice golden crust. Don’t worry if they’re not cooked through yet, as they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 4: Build the Sauce and Simmer

In the same skillet, add a few tablespoons of masala paste and stir-fry it for a couple of minutes to bring out those spices. Pour in the tomato puree, then add your browned chicken back in. Let everything simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Seasoning

Stir in the cream or coconut milk and add kosher salt to taste. Let it sit for a few minutes so that velvety sauce can thicken a bit more. I always sneak a taste here because, honestly, it’s so addictive. Then it’s time to plate over fluffy rice with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top — pure bliss!

How to Serve Quick Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Garnishes

I almost always finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for that herbal brightness, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Sometimes I add a few thin slices of fresh green chili for extra heat, but only if I’m feeling adventurous—and my guests agree!

Side Dishes

This dish shines alongside fluffy basmati rice, but I’ve also served it with warm naan bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce—trust me, that’s a must-try. For veggies, lightly steamed green beans or sautéed spinach add a fresh balance to the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like to serve this dish in rustic earthenware bowls with a side of cucumber raita to cool the palate. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side invites guests to add a zing of acidity if they like, and it just looks so inviting on the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store really well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I learned that letting the dish cool completely before sealing keeps the sauce fresh and prevents condensation from making it watery.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. I usually divide it into meal-sized portions and freeze in freezer-safe containers. When thawed, the sauce stays creamy and the chicken tender—perfect for when you need a dinner that’s ready almost instantaneously.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat leftovers is gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if it thickens too much. Microwave works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to keep everything evenly warmed.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Quick Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe, I was immediately hooked—not just because it’s delicious, but because it felt so approachable to make at home. It’s a recipe I keep in my back pocket for when I want something impressive but easy. I really hope you give it a try and experience the same joy my family and I do every time we sit down to this cozy, flavorful meal. Enjoy cooking, and even more, enjoy savoring every bite!

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