Chicken Tikka Masala
Marinated chicken tikka in a creamy tomato based masala sauce.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) 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.
An Indian Affair
Chicken Tikka Masala's origins are debated, but it is widely believed to have originated in the United Kingdom, likely in Glasgow, Scotland, in the 1970s. It's a dish born out of a desire to cater to Western palates while incorporating Indian flavors. The dish evolved from Chicken Tikka, a traditional Indian dish, to include a creamy, tomato-based sauce.
Chicken Tikka Masala has become a symbol of British-Indian cuisine and is widely enjoyed throughout the UK and beyond. It represents the fusion of culinary traditions and adaptation to local tastes.
National Dish?
Chicken Tikka Masala is often cited as one of Britain's most popular dishes and has even been referred to as a 'national dish' of the UK, reflecting its significant cultural impact.
Fusion Cuisine
The dish embodies the concept of fusion cuisine, blending Indian spices and cooking techniques with British preferences for creamy sauces and milder flavors.
Restaurant Staple
Chicken Tikka Masala is a staple item on the menu of most Indian restaurants in the UK and many other Western countries, making it a globally recognized dish.
Chicken Tikka Masala offers a symphony of flavors, balancing smoky, savory, and creamy notes. The marinated chicken brings a tender, slightly charred element, while the masala sauce provides a rich, aromatic base.
The dish features tender pieces of chicken tikka (marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled or roasted) swimming in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Common spices include garam masala, ginger, garlic, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and paprika. The sauce is often enriched with cream, yogurt, or coconut milk for a smooth and velvety texture. The dish offers a balanced profile of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, with a hint of spice.
Marinating is Key
Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat. Yogurt and acidic ingredients in the marinade help break down the proteins.
Spice Freshness
Use fresh, high-quality spices for the most vibrant and aromatic flavor. Toasting the spices lightly before grinding them can enhance their aroma even further.
Creamy Consistency
Adjust the amount of cream or yogurt to achieve your desired level of creaminess. Adding a touch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Smoky Flavor
Grilling or roasting the chicken tikka over charcoal or in a tandoor oven will impart a characteristic smoky flavor. If using an oven, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end to achieve a similar effect.
Simmering Sauce
Allow the sauce to simmer gently for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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