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Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

5.1 from 27 reviews

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish featuring tender marinated chicken cooked in a flavorful spiced tomato and cream sauce. Perfectly balanced with aromatic spices and a hint of smokiness, this recipe offers a delicious home-cooked take on a popular classic.

Ingredients

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For the Chicken Marinade

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon oil

For the Masala Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, garam masala, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and oil. Mix well. Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and coat them thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor enhancement.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan, skillet, or broiler over medium-high heat. Drizzle a little oil on the pan and sear the marinated chicken pieces for about 4-5 minutes on each side until slightly charred and cooked through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  3. Prepare the Masala Sauce: In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat butter and oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Add ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, smoked paprika, and chili powder, stirring for 30 seconds to toast the spices. Mix in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes before pouring in the crushed tomatoes. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Reduce the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Add sugar if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine and Serve: Add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir in lemon juice and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot, accompanied by basmati rice, naan, or roti for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • You can adjust the chili powder according to your heat preference.
  • Use coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream.
  • Grilling the chicken adds a nice smoky flavor but baking is a good alternative.
  • Serve with fresh naan bread or steamed basmati rice to enjoy the sauce fully.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Tikka Masala, Indian Chicken Curry, Spiced Chicken, Creamy Chicken Masala, Gordon Ramsay Recipes