Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala: A Flavorful Delight

Chicken Tikka Masala is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of rich spices and vibrant flavors that brings people together. Originating from Indian cuisine, this dish has beautifully collided with Zimbabwean influences, creating a fusion that tells a story of cultural blending. Using locally sourced ingredients from Zimbabwe, such as fresh chicken, tomatoes, and spices, our Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala provides an explosion of flavor in every bite, perfect for sharing with family or presenting on your very own food marketplace like Zimbo Menu.

Ingredients

To get started with your Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala, gather the following ingredients. This recipe serves approximately 4 people:

For the Marinade:

500g boneless chicken thighs

1 cup plain yogurt

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 tablespoons garam masala

1 tablespoon turmeric powder

1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

Salt to taste

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, grated

For the Tikka Masala Sauce:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes

1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream

1 teaspoon ground coriander

Salt to taste

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, and salt.

Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Cooking the Chicken Tikka:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). You can also grill the chicken for a more smoky flavor if desired.

Place the marinated chicken on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and slightly charred. Turn once halfway through for even cooking.

Make the Tikka Masala Sauce:

While the chicken is baking, heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat.

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown. This step is crucial for developing the flavor of your sauce.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened.

Then mix in the coconut milk or heavy cream, along with ground coriander and salt. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine Everything:

Once the chicken is ready, cut it into bite-sized pieces.

Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, stirring well to ensure the chicken is fully coated with the rich, creamy sauce.

Adjust seasoning based on your preference. For an added twist, consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Cooking Tips

For the best flavor, ensure you marinate the chicken long enough. Marinating overnight allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat, rendering it tender and juicy. Remember, the spice levels can be adjusted based on your audience; feel free to experiment with different spices or heat levels to suit your palate.

This Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala goes excellently with basmati rice or naan bread, making it a fantastic dish for sharing at family gatherings or even for selling through the Zimbo Menu Marketplace. With its creamy texture and unique flavor profile, it can become your signature dish!

Let this delightful recipe serve as an inspiration not just for mealtimes but also as a potential business path with the Zimbo Menu platform. Download the Zimbo Menu app today to explore how easy it can be to share your creations with the world or turn your cooking passion into profit!