Chicken Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan is a deliciously comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce, served alongside warm, buttery naan bread infused with garlic. A classic Indian-inspired favorite, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
1. What Is Chicken Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan?
Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful dish that combines marinated chicken, cooked until smoky and tender, with a rich and aromatic sauce. Garlic naan, a leavened flatbread brushed with garlic butter, is the perfect accompaniment for scooping up the creamy masala.
Why Is It So Popular?
- Rich and Flavorful: The balance of spices, creaminess, and smoky chicken is irresistible.
- Perfect Pairing: Garlic naan complements the masala sauce beautifully.
- Comfort Food: A hearty, satisfying meal for any occasion.
Perfect For:
- Family dinners
- Entertaining guests
- Weekend meal indulgence
2. Ingredients for Chicken Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan
For the Chicken Tikka Masala:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts.
- Yogurt: For marinating the chicken.
- Spices: Garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, and chili powder.
- Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes or tomato puree.
- Cream: Heavy cream or coconut cream for richness.
- Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced for depth of flavor.
- Onion: Finely chopped.
- Cilantro: For garnish.
For the Garlic Naan:
- Flour: All-purpose or bread flour.
- Yeast: Active dry yeast for leavening.
- Yogurt: Adds softness to the dough.
- Garlic: Minced or grated for the topping.
- Butter: Melted, for brushing.
3. Preparing the Chicken Tikka Masala
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine in a bowl:
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon each of garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, and chili powder
- 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Add 1½ pounds of chicken pieces, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Grill or broil the chicken until slightly charred and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Alternatively, cook in a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil. Set aside.
4. Making the Tikka Masala Sauce
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter in a large skillet.
- Sauté 1 finely chopped onion until golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add Spices and Tomatoes:
- Stir in:
- 1 teaspoon each of garam masala, cumin, and paprika
- A pinch of chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
3. Finish the Sauce:
- Add ½ cup heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Preparing the Garlic Naan
1. Make the Dough:
- In a bowl, combine:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- ½ cup yogurt
- ¾ cup warm water (adjust as needed)
- Knead into a soft, smooth dough. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours.
2. Shape the Naan:
- Divide the dough into 6-8 portions. Roll each piece into an oval or circle about ¼-inch thick.
3. Cook the Naan:
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for 1-2 minutes per side until bubbly and golden spots appear.
4. Add Garlic Butter:
- Mix 3 tablespoons melted butter with 2 minced garlic cloves. Brush over the warm naan.
6. Serving Chicken Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan
1. Plate the Dish:
- Serve the chicken tikka masala in a large bowl, garnished with chopped cilantro.
- Stack the warm garlic naan on a platter.
2. Add Accompaniments:
- Serve with steamed basmati rice or a cucumber yogurt raita on the side.
7. Tips for the Best Chicken Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan
- Marinate the Chicken: Longer marination time enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Char the Chicken: Grilling or broiling adds a smoky depth to the dish.
- Use Fresh Garlic for Naan: Freshly minced garlic creates the best flavor for the topping.
- Balance the Sauce: Adjust cream and spices to achieve the perfect richness and heat.
8. Variations to Try
1. Vegan Option:
- Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and use coconut cream in the sauce.
2. Spicy Twist:
- Add extra chili powder or fresh green chilies for more heat.
3. Herb Naan:
- Add fresh chopped cilantro or parsley to the naan dough.
4. Gluten-Free:
- Use gluten-free flour for the naan and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the tikka masala sauce can be made a day in advance. Add the cooked chicken when reheating.
2. Can I use pre-made naan?
Absolutely! Warm store-bought naan in the oven or on a skillet and brush with garlic butter.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store the chicken tikka masala in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or cream.
4. Can I freeze the tikka masala?
Yes, freeze the sauce and chicken separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
5. What’s the best yogurt for marinating?
Use plain, unsweetened yogurt for the best results. Greek yogurt works well too.
6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly in this dish.
7. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Use coconut cream, half-and-half, or cashew cream for a lighter or dairy-free alternative.
8. How do I make the naan dough fluffier?
Let the dough rise in a warm place for at least 1-2 hours to ensure it’s light and fluffy.
9. Can I cook naan in the oven?
Yes, bake naan on a pizza stone or baking sheet at 450°F (230°C) for 2-3 minutes.
10. What can I use if I don’t have garam masala?
Substitute with a mix of ground cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and cardamom.