Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Charred chicken pieces in a rich, creamy spiced tomato sauce
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Chicken tikka masala is one of the world's most popular curries — charred, yogurt-marinated chicken pieces in a rich, creamy tomato sauce spiced with garam masala, cumin, and coriander.
Broil or grill the marinated chicken for those charred edges. The yogurt marinade creates a tender, flavorful crust.
The sauce is silky smooth — blend the tomatoes and cream together for restaurant-quality results.
About This Recipe
"Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala" is a Dinner recipe that brings boneless chicken thighs, cubed, plain yogurt, garam masala, cumin and crushed tomatoes together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Medium and ready in about 50 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 6 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The Indian inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cubed
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- 1
Marinate chicken in yogurt, 1 tsp garam masala, and cumin for 1 hour.
- 2
Thread onto skewers or place on a baking sheet. Broil 5-6 minutes per side until charred.
- 3
Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in butter. Add remaining spices.
- 4
Add crushed tomatoes. Simmer 15 minutes, then blend until smooth.
- 5
Stir in cream and charred chicken pieces. Simmer 10 minutes.
- 6
Serve with basmati rice and warm naan.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Boneless chicken thighs, cubed is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Sheet pan and blender work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala" is a versatile Dinner dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, crusty bread or dinner rolls and classic Indian sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the dish thickens in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 50 minutes. It serves 6 and is rated Medium.
How do I store leftover Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala?
Store leftover Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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