Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish consisting of grilled chicken pieces (Tikka) served in a creamy and flavorful tomato-based sauce. The sauce often includes aromatic spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
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.
Chicken Tikka Masala's history is debated, but it's widely believed to have originated in the United Kingdom, likely in Glasgow, Scotland, in the 1970s. It's a dish created to appeal to Western palates, adapting traditional Indian flavors.
Chicken Tikka Masala has become a beloved dish in the UK and beyond, representing a fusion of Indian flavors adapted for a global audience.
National Dish?
Chicken Tikka Masala is often cited as one of Britain's most popular dishes, even being referred to as a British national dish by some.
Cultural Fusion
The dish exemplifies how immigrant communities can adapt and transform their culinary traditions to create new and popular dishes within a new cultural context.
Restaurant Staple
It's a standard offering in most Indian restaurants in the UK and many other parts of the world.
Chicken Tikka Masala is characterized by its creamy, savory, and subtly sweet flavors, balanced by aromatic spices.
The dish features tender pieces of chicken marinated in yogurt and spices (tikka) and then grilled or baked. The masala sauce is a tomato-based gravy, typically enriched with cream or yogurt, and seasoned with a blend of spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, ginger, and garlic. Lemon juice or lime juice is often added for brightness.
Marination Matters
Marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, allows the flavors to penetrate deeply and tenderize the meat.
Grilling for Char
Grilling or broiling the chicken before adding it to the sauce imparts a smoky char that enhances the overall flavor.
Spice Balance
Adjust the spices to your preference. Some prefer a spicier masala, while others prefer a milder, sweeter version. Always bloom the spices in oil to release their aroma.
Creamy Texture
Use heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a rich and creamy sauce. If using yogurt, temper it before adding it to the hot sauce to prevent curdling.
Explore additional Indian dishes and restaurants
Explore IndianDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in St. Gallen.
Explore St. GallenLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Switzerland.
Explore Switzerland