Chicken tikka masala

 Yeh raha ek classic Chicken Tikka Masala recipe:

Ingredients

*For the Chicken Tikka:*

- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

- 1/2 cup plain yogurt

- 2 tablespoons lemon juice

- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil

- 2 teaspoons garam masala

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

*For the Masala Sauce:*

- 2 large onions, thinly sliced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 medium tomatoes, diced

- 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil

- 2 tablespoons tomato puree

- 1 tablespoon butter

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 1 cup chicken broth

- 1/2 cup heavy cream

- 1 teaspoon garam masala

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. *Marinate the Chicken:* In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, ghee or oil, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken and mix until the pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

2. *Grill the Chicken:* Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill the chicken until it is cooked through and lightly charred, about 6-8 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

3. *Make the Masala Sauce:* In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.

4. *Add Aromatics and Spices:* Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato puree, butter, garam masala, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. *Add Flour and Broth:* Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. *Add Cream and Chicken:* Stir in the heavy cream and add the grilled chicken to the saucepan. Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is fully coated, about 5-7 minutes.

7. *Serve:* Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by basmati rice or naan bread.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Tikka Masala!