Name: The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon salt; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Hey y’all! If you’re craving a vibrant, creamy curry that’s bursting with bold flavors, this is The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style) you’ll ever need. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a fun weekend meal, or impressing friends at a dinner party, this recipe delivers that velvety, spiced sauce and succulent chicken just like your favorite Indian restaurant. Ready to spice up your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

Rich, creamy sauce that rivals any restaurant’s version.

Easy-to-find ingredients and step-by-step instructions make it approachable for home cooks.
Customizable spice levels to suit every palate.
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better the next day.

Packed with aromatic spices for an authentic Indian cuisine experience.

Ingredients for The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

1 ½ lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup plain Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste (or 1 tbsp each minced garlic and ginger)
2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 ½ teaspoons garam masala, divided
1 teaspoon turmeric

1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 ½ teaspoons salt, divided

2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola)
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 (14-oz) can crushed tomatoes

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions: The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, 1 teaspoon garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, paprika, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add chicken pieces and mix well to coat.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).

The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your broiler or grill to high (about 500°F/260°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a rack on top.

Arrange marinated chicken pieces on the rack. Broil or grill for 6-8 minutes, turning once, until slightly charred and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Masala Sauce

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 8 minutes.
Add remaining ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Stir in crushed tomatoes, remaining garam masala, and ½ teaspoon salt. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and the oil begins to separate.
Pour in heavy cream and butter. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add cooked chicken to the sauce, including any juices. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Notes for The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

For an extra smoky flavor, finish the cooked dish with a touch of smoked paprika or a few minutes on the grill. Learn more about grilling techniques from Serious Eats.
If you don’t have heavy cream, use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Make your own garam masala for maximum freshness – check out this easy garam masala recipe from Bon Appétit.

Variations of The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

Vegetarian: Substitute paneer or tofu for chicken.
Lighter Version: Use low-fat Greek yogurt and half-and-half in place of heavy cream.

Extra Spicy: Add 1-2 chopped green chilies to the onion mixture.

Required Equipment for The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet and rack (or grill)

Large skillet or saucepan
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups

Storage Instructions for The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions for The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

Serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for soaking up the sauce.

Pair with a crisp cucumber raita or a fresh tomato-onion salad.
Try with lightly sautéed green beans or roasted cauliflower on the side.

Pro Tips for The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

Marinate the chicken as long as possible for the deepest flavor—overnight is ideal.

Use chicken thighs for juicier, more succulent meat compared to chicken breast.
For a restaurant-style finish, stir in a tablespoon of cold butter just before serving. For more curry tips, visit BBC Good Food’s curry guide.

FAQ: The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely! The flavors get even better after sitting overnight in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead dish.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all your ingredients (especially yogurt and spices) are gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.

Can I use store-bought tikka masala sauce?

You can, but making the sauce from scratch gives you the best flavor and control over the ingredients.

For more about the nutritional benefits of spices used in this recipe, check out this guide from Healthline.

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The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Restaurant Style)