Classic Chicken Tikka Masala with Creamy Tomato Sauce
Tender chicken pieces marinated in spices and yogurt, simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with garam masala and fresh ginger. This indian-inspired chicken (gluten-free option) ready in about 55 minutes blends plain yogurt, divided garam masala, ground cumin into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 lb, cut into 1¼-inch pieces boneless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tsp, divided garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp, divided salt
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium, finely chopped onion
- 3, minced garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp, grated fresh ginger
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup, chopped, for garnish cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine 1 lb boneless chicken thighs cut into 1¼-inch pieces with 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 1 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Mix well and marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and sauté for 6-7 minutes until soft and golden.
- Step 3: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4: Stir in 1 cup tomato puree and remaining 1 tsp garam masala and 1/2 tsp salt. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- Step 5: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Step 6: Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes until sauce is creamy and coats the chicken.
- Step 7: Garnish with 1/4 cup chopped cilantro before serving with basmati rice or naan.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Classic Chicken Tikka Masala with Creamy Tomato Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 55 minutes (15 min prep + 40 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Classic Chicken Tikka Masala with Creamy Tomato Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Classic Chicken Tikka Masala with Creamy Tomato Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Classic Chicken Tikka Masala with Creamy Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Classic Chicken Tikka Masala with Creamy Tomato Sauce gluten-free option?
Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten-free option based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
