Name: Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt (for marinade); 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 400g tomato puree or crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant spices, creamy textures, and comforting warmth, this Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is your new best friend for busy weeknights. Combining tender marinated chicken with a luscious tomato-based sauce, this recipe comes together quickly without sacrificing any authentic flavor. It’s an effortless way to bring restaurant-quality Indian cuisine straight to your kitchen, making dinner both delicious and stress-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Designed for busy nights, this recipe comes together fast without complicated steps.
Rich Flavor: Layers of spices, yogurt, and cream create a deeply satisfying and aromatic dish.
Family-Friendly: Mild heat levels make it perfect for all ages while still packing a punch of flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples along with fresh spices to keep it simple yet authentic.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimizes cleanup with much of the cooking done in one skillet or pan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is key to making a flavorful Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe. Each component adds a unique touch—spices for depth, cream for silkiness, and yogurt for tenderizing the chicken—allowing you to create a dish that’s balanced and bursting with taste.

Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless, skinless for quick cooking and tender bites.
Plain yogurt: Acts as a marinade base to tenderize the chicken and add subtle tang.
Garam masala and ground spices: The heart of the dish, providing warmth and complex flavor.
Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes: Builds the rich, vibrant sauce that holds everything together.
Heavy cream or coconut milk: Adds creaminess and mellow heat to the dish.
Fresh garlic and ginger: Infuse essential freshness and zing.
Onion: Sautéed to a golden base, contributing sweetness and body.
Cooking oil or ghee: For frying and enhancing aroma.
Salt and pepper: To season and balance all the flavors perfectly.

Variations for Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

This recipe easily adapts to fit your tastes or dietary needs, making it a perfect canvas for experimentation. Whether you want it more indulgent, lighter, or plant-based, the flexibility is part of the joy of cooking it at home.

Vegetarian option: Swap chicken for paneer or tofu for a delicious meat-free version.
Spice level adjustment: Add extra chili powder or fresh green chilies for a fiery kick.
Dairy-free adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream and opt for coconut yogurt to keep it rich.
Smoky flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or grill the chicken beforehand.
Extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and color.

Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe for Busy Nights

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Oil Dispenser

Buy Now →

Air Fryer+ Rotisserie

Buy Now →

Chopper & Spiralizer

Buy Now →

How to Make Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining chicken pieces with yogurt, garam masala, ground cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor and tenderize the meat beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat oil or ghee in a skillet, then sauté the marinated chicken until browned and almost cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same pan, add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until softened and golden, then stir in the remaining spices and tomato puree. Let the mix simmer for 10 minutes so all the flavors meld perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken to the pan with the simmering sauce, add the heavy cream, and cook on low heat until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens, creating that signature luscious texture.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste and adjust salt or spice levels as needed. Once your sauce is creamy and the chicken is fully cooked, you’re ready to serve this comforting classic!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Marinate longer: For even juicier chicken, marinate up to 4 hours or overnight if planning ahead.
Use fresh spices: Freshly ground garam masala and cumin make a noticeable difference in flavor intensity.
Low and slow simmer: Allow the sauce to gently simmer to deepen flavors without burning.
Cream alternatives: For a healthier twist, Greek yogurt can be stirred in at the end instead of cream.
Rest before serving: Let the dish rest for a few minutes to let all flavors integrate beautifully.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lemon instantly brighten this dish, adding layers of freshness that contrast the rich sauce.

Side Dishes

Pair your chicken tikka masala with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread, or even a side of roasted vegetables to complete the meal effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual bowls with a drizzle of cream or swirl of yogurt, accompanied by pickled onions or a sprinkle of toasted cumin seeds for that restaurant-style wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover chicken tikka masala in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 3 days, preserving its flavor and freshness.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months to enjoy on a future busy night.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating and ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, making them an excellent choice for this Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Use tofu or chickpeas in place of chicken, and swap yogurt and cream with coconut-based alternatives to enjoy a vegan-friendly version.

How long does it take to marinate the chicken?

While 30 minutes is enough for a quick marinade, allowing the chicken to marinate for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavors significantly.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Definitely. The sauce can be made one day ahead and stored in the fridge; simply reheat and add cooked chicken when ready to serve.

What can I serve with chicken tikka masala for a complete meal?

Classic pairings include basmati rice, naan bread, raita, or a fresh cucumber salad to complement the rich and creamy curry perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe proves that incredible, restaurant-quality flavor doesn’t have to come with lengthy prep times or complicated steps. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the whole family, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a warm, comforting, and satisfying meal on any busy night. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!