Homemade Chicken Tikka Masala
Charred chicken pieces in a rich, creamy spiced tomato sauce
By RecipesQueen Kitchen • June 10, 2026
Chicken tikka masala is one of the world's most popular curries — charred, yogurt-marinated chicken pieces in a rich, creamy tomato sauce spiced with garam masala, cumin, and coriander.
Broil or grill the marinated chicken for those charred edges. The yogurt marinade creates a tender, flavorful crust.
The sauce is silky smooth — blend the tomatoes and cream together for restaurant-quality results.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cubed
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- 1
Marinate chicken in yogurt, 1 tsp garam masala, and cumin for 1 hour.
- 2
Thread onto skewers or place on a baking sheet. Broil 5-6 minutes per side until charred.
- 3
Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in butter. Add remaining spices.
- 4
Add crushed tomatoes. Simmer 15 minutes, then blend until smooth.
- 5
Stir in cream and charred chicken pieces. Simmer 10 minutes.
- 6
Serve with basmati rice and warm naan.
