Authentic Indian Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients

• Fresh cilantro (handful, finely chopped for garnish)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Tomatoes (4, pureed)
• Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
• Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons)
• Salt (1 teaspoon or to taste)
• Red chili powder (1 teaspoon)
• Coriander powder (1 teaspoon)
• Cumin powder (1 teaspoon)
• Turmeric powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Garam masala (1 teaspoon)
• Ginger-garlic paste (2 tablespoons)
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
• Yogurt (1 cup)
• Chicken breast (500g, cut into bite-sized pieces)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well until all ingredients are incorporated.
2. Add the chicken pieces into the bowl and mix until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.
4. Stir in the pureed tomatoes and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the marinated chicken along with all the marinade into the pan. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The curry should have a creamy consistency.
7. Finally, garnish the curry with the finely chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread.