Description
A quick, restaurant-style Chicken Tikka Masala that is ready in 30 minutes. This gluten-free version skips wheat flour thickeners, using tomato paste and cream for a rich, velvety sauce with deep, authentic flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup (120g) plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp (32g) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream or full-fat coconut cream
- 1.5 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 cup (120ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp oil (for searing)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or fresh jalapeño for heat
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, 1 tsp garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in a single layer for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and charred. Remove chicken to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add another tbsp of oil if needed. Reduce heat to medium. Cook diced onion for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add remaining garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste and 1 tsp garam masala. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw metallic taste.
- Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Return chicken and juices to the skillet.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes until chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C).
- Remove lid. Stir in heavy cream (or coconut cream) and salt. Simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning and serve over basmati rice.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream. The sauce thickens upon standing; add a splash of broth when reheating. Fresh ginger and garlic are recommended over jarred versions for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 35
Keywords: Chicken Tikka Masala, Gluten-Free, Quick Dinner, Indian Food, 30 Minute Recipe, One-Pot Meal, Creamy Chicken