James Martin Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: James Martin's Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp paprika; 400g can chopped tomatoes; 200ml double cream; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; Fresh coriander, chopped, to garnish; Juice of 1 lemon

James Martin's Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful dish that combines succulent pieces of chicken with a creamy, aromatic sauce. It's a recipe that has won the hearts of many, embodying the rich flavors that are synonymous with Indian cuisine, yet perfectly adapted to suit a wide array of taste preferences. Here's a closer look at how you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen.

James Martin's Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Ingredients for Chicken Tikka Masala

For the Marinade:

800g chicken breast, cut into tikka-sized pieces
160g Greek yogurt
Spices including red chilli powder, ginger and garlic paste, garam masala, cumin powder, turmeric, white vinegar, green chilli paste, salt, and a pinch of orange food colouring
Dried fenugreek leaves

For the Sauce and Serving:

Fresh ingredients such as onions, garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices including chilli powder, garam masala, and turmeric
A tin of chopped tomatoes
Fresh coriander for garnish

Preparation Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: Begin by preparing the marinade. Mix all the marinade ingredients (excluding the chicken) until well combined. Then add the chicken pieces, ensuring they're fully coated. Leave to marinate for at least an hour, or overnight for best results.
Cook the Chicken: After marinating, skewer the chicken pieces and cook in a clay oven or preheated oven at 180°C until the chicken is cooked through.
Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, start on the sauce. Fry onions until golden, add the ginger and garlic, followed by the spices. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and simmer to achieve a rich sauce.
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, allowing it to simmer and soak up the flavors. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with naan bread or basmati rice.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, gently warm the Chicken Tikka Masala on the stove, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutritional Information

This dish is high in protein and can be adapted to be lower in fat by using light or non-fat Greek yogurt and cream in the sauce. The spices not only add flavor but also offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

FAQ about Chicken Tikka Masala

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Adjust the amount of chilli powder and green chilli paste to suit your taste.
Is it possible to make a dairy-free version? Yes, you can substitute the yogurt and cream with dairy-free alternatives.

The original recipe for Chicken Tikka Masala by James Martin showcases the chef's ability to create dishes that are both flavorful and accessible to home cooks. It's a recipe that brings a piece of Indian culinary tradition into kitchens around the world.