Quick Tikka Masala

Experience the irresistible flavors of this Quick Tikka Masala—perfect for busy weeknights without compromising on authenticity or taste. Tender, marinated chicken breast is cooked to perfection and simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce infused with fragrant garam masala, paprika, cumin, and fresh ginger. This 30-minute recipe delivers all the bold, comforting spices of a classic Indian dish in a fraction of the time. Garnished with fresh cilantro and served over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for lovers of easy chicken curry recipes, this dish brings a restaurant-quality experience straight to your home kitchen!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
• 120 ml Plain yogurt
• 2 teaspoons Garam masala
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Ginger (minced)
• 400 grams Tomato puree
• 120 ml Heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Cilantro (chopped)
• 2 cups Cooked basmati rice (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.

Step 2

In the bowl with the chicken, add yogurt, 1 teaspoon of garam masala, paprika, cumin, and half the salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly, then set aside to marinate while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 6

Add the tomato puree, remaining 1 teaspoon of garam masala, and remaining salt. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2 more minutes.

Step 8

While the sauce simmers, heat another pan over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken pieces for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly browned.

Step 9

Transfer the cooked chicken into the sauce and stir to coat. Simmer together for 2–3 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Step 10

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Step 11

Serve hot with cooked basmati rice or naan bread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1214.7 grams (1214.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1492

Total Fat 71.60g	92%
Saturated Fat 29.80g	149%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.90g
Cholesterol 128mg	43%
Sodium 2601mg	113%
Total Carbohydrate 182.80g	66%
Dietary Fiber 13.40g	48%
Total Sugars 34.60g
Protein 28.60g	57%

Vitamin D 60IU	298%
Calcium 408mg	31%
Iron 10mg	53%
Potassium 2510mg	53%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.2%

Protein: 7.7%

Carbs: 49.1%