Spicy Chicken Tikka Masala

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-03-27 · Updated 2026-03-27

Tender chicken chunks marinated in yogurt and spices, simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with cream and peppers. This indian-inspired salads ready in about 70 minutes pairs cut into 1-inch cubes chicken breast, yogurt, garam masala into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. 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 1/2 lbs, cut into 1-inch cubes chicken breast
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 4 cloves, minced garlic
• 2 tbsp, grated ginger
• 2 cups tomato puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup, sliced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, mix yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, garlic, ginger, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Add chicken and marinate 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: Place chicken on a baking sheet and roast 20-25 minutes until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a skillet, sauté bell peppers for 5 minutes. Add tomato puree and simmer 10 minutes. Stir in cream, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Return chicken to pan and cook 5 minutes until sauce thickens and coats chicken. Garnish with cilantro.