Creamy Chicken Tikka Masala

A fusion dish that combines the bold, aromatic flavors of classic chicken tikka masala with tender pasta in a rich, creamy sauce.

This is one of my favorite dishes to prepare when I want something comforting yet exciting, blending Indian and Italian cuisines in a single bowl.

Ingredients

• Chicken Marinade: 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces, 120 g (½ cup) plain Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp turmeric, 1 tsp garam masala, ¾ tsp salt
• Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or rigatoni pasta, Water for boiling, 1 tsp salt
• Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 medium onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tbsp ginger grated, 2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp ground coriander, ½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat), 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 200 ml (¾ cup + 2 tbsp) heavy cream, 60 ml (¼ cup) chicken broth or water, 1 tsp sugar, Salt to taste, 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped

Instructions

Step 1:

In a bowl, combine all marinade ingredients with the chicken. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for best flavor).

Step 2:

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3:

Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken (shake off excess marinade) and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 4:

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and golden.

Step 5:

Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute. Stir in cumin, paprika, coriander, and chili powder; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6:

Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Step 7:

Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, mixing well. Return cooked chicken to the sauce and simmer for 3 minutes.

Step 8:

Add cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce. Warm through for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 9:

Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

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This recipe always brings my family together, especially during weekend dinners when everyone enjoys the warm and comforting flavors.

Required Tools

Large skillet or sauté pan, Large pot for boiling pasta, Mixing bowls, Measuring cups and spoons, Knife and cutting board, Colander

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (yogurt, butter, cream) and gluten (pasta). May contain traces of nuts depending on yogurt brand check labels. For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 590, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 59 g, Protein: 38 g per serving

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This creamy chicken tikka masala pasta is the perfect meal to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in.

Recipe Guide

→ How should the chicken be marinated?

Combine chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and garam masala. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne or rigatoni pasta are ideal as their shape holds the creamy sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful and well-coated.

→ Can the heat level be adjusted?

Yes, chili powder in the sauce can be omitted or increased to suit preferred spice levels without compromising the overall flavor.

→ What ingredients create the creamy texture of the sauce?

A mixture of heavy cream, butter, and canned crushed tomatoes combined with aromatic spices delivers a rich, smooth, and balanced sauce.

→ Are there any recommended serving suggestions?

Garnish with fresh cilantro for brightness. This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled lager.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for the protein?

Paneer or firm tofu can replace chicken, marinated and cooked similarly to maintain the dish's signature flavors.