Chicken Tikka Masala

 Here's a detailed recipe for making Chicken Tikka Masala:

                                                                 

 Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 cup plain yogurt

 2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons ground coriander

2 teaspoons garam masala

 2 teaspoons paprika

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

4 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, grated

 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

 For the Sauce:

 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee

 1 large onion, finely chopped

 4 cloves garlic, minced

 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

  2 teaspoons ground cumin

  2 teaspoons ground coriander

  2 teaspoons garam masala

  1 teaspoon ground turmeric

  1 teaspoon ground paprika

  1 teaspoon ground black pepper

  1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

  1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

  1 cup heavy cream

   Salt to taste

   Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

   Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

   In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, spices, garlic, and ginger for the marinade.

   Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat.

   Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for the best flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   Preheat your grill or oven to high heat (around 450°F or 230°C).

   Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers (if grilling).

   Grill or bake the chicken pieces until they are cooked through and slightly charred on the edges, about 10-12 minutes.

   Remove the chicken from the skewers and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

   In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat.

    Add the chopped onion and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

    Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.

   Stir in the ground spices and cook for another minute until fragrant.

    Add the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld.

    Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

4. Combine and Serve:

    Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring to coat them well.

   Simmer for another 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through.

   Season with salt to taste.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.

   Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or a side of your choice.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Tikka Masala!

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