Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Rich, warming, and full of bold flavors, this Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala offers a delicious take on one of the UK’s most-loved curries. Inspired by Indian flavors but tailored to home kitchens, this version uses marinated grilled chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. Jamie’s approach balances depth and simplicity—making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Serve it with fluffy rice or warm naan for a complete and satisfying meal.

What is Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala?

The Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful curry dish featuring marinated chunks of chicken cooked in a blend of yogurt and spices, grilled or pan-seared for a smoky char, and then simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Jamie’s version focuses on accessible ingredients and a bold but balanced spice mix, resulting in a comforting and homemade curry that rivals takeaway versions.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Granola Dust
• Jamie Oliver Lemon Bliss Tart
• Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani
• Mary Berry Crab Pasta

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Bold, warming flavors – Without being too spicy
• Authentic-style taste with easy steps – No hard-to-find ingredients
• Perfect for family dinners or meal prep – Feeds a crowd
• Customizable spice level – Kid-friendly and adult-approved
• Pairs with rice, naan, or even salad – Versatile for different diets
• Marinade adds depth – Chicken stays juicy and flavorful

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

For the Chicken Marinade:

• Chicken thighs – 700g (boneless, skinless, cut into chunks)
• Natural yogurt – 150g (about ⅔ cup)
• Garlic – 3 cloves, grated
• Fresh ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated
• Garam masala – 1 tablespoon
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – ½ teaspoon
• Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon

For the Masala Sauce:

• Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
• Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger – 1 tablespoon, minced
• Tomato puree – 1 tablespoon
• Chopped tomatoes – 400g can
• Ground coriander – 1 teaspoon
• Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric – ½ teaspoon
• Chili powder – ½ teaspoon (optional)
• Double cream – 150ml (about ⅔ cup)
• Fresh coriander – for garnish
• Salt and pepper – to taste

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl for marinade
• Grill pan or skillet
• Large saucepan or pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and chopping board
• Serving bowls

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices.
• Add chicken pieces and coat well.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook the marinated chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until lightly charred and just cooked through. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Masala Sauce

• Heat oil in a large pan.
• Add chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden and soft.
• Stir in garlic, ginger, and tomato puree. Cook for 2 minutes.
• Add ground spices, then pour in chopped tomatoes.
• Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Blend and Finish the Sauce (Optional)

• For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture directly in the pan (optional step).
• Stir in the cream and bring back to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

• Add the grilled chicken to the sauce.
• Simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or chili as desired.

Step 6: Serve

• Garnish with fresh coriander.
• Serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or roti.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

• Steamed basmati rice – Classic and fluffy pairing
• Garlic naan or plain naan – Perfect for scooping the sauce
• Cucumber raita or yogurt dip – Cool contrast
• Mango chutney – Adds a sweet balance
• Lentil dal or chickpea curry – For a vegetarian side
• Pickled onions or fresh salad – Adds freshness
• Poppadoms – Crispy appetizer or side

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

• Use chicken thighs – They stay juicy and flavorful
• Marinate overnight for deeper flavor – But 1 hour still works
• Char the chicken slightly – Adds smoky depth like tandoori-style cooking
• Blend the sauce if preferred smooth – Adds restaurant-like texture
• Add chili flakes if you like it spicier – Adjust to taste
• Double the sauce – Freezes well and can be reused with paneer or veg

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

• Vegetarian version – Replace chicken with paneer, tofu, or chickpeas
• Use coconut milk instead of cream – For a dairy-free option
• Add spinach or peas – To boost nutrition and color
• Make it spicier – Increase chili powder or add fresh green chili
• Try with lamb or prawns – Different proteins work beautifully
• Low-fat version – Use low-fat yogurt and skip the cream (or use less)

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

• Cool completely before storing – Keeps the texture safe
• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Lasts up to 3 days
• Freeze in batches – Perfect for meal prep (up to 2 months)
• Label and date containers – Helps with rotation
• Store rice separately – For best reheating results

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring often until piping hot
• Microwave in intervals, covered and stirring between each
• Add a splash of water or cream if thickened – Restores consistency
• Avoid boiling after adding cream – To keep it silky
• Reheat rice separately and safely – Ensure it’s fully heated through

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala Healthier?

• Use low-fat yogurt and cream alternatives – Like Greek yogurt or oat cream
• Grill or bake the chicken instead of pan-frying – Reduces oil use
• Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers – Increases fiber
• Reduce the cream and increase tomato – Still creamy, but lighter
• Limit salt and add fresh lemon juice – Boosts flavor naturally
• Serve with brown rice or cauliflower rice – For a lower-carb option

Nutrition Value (per serving with sauce only):

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 480mg

FAQs

How long should I marinate chicken for tikka masala?

Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal for deeper flavor and tenderness. The yogurt and spices work together to tenderize and season the meat.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for tikka masala?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breast, but chicken thighs are recommended as they stay juicier and more flavorful during cooking.

Do I need to grill the chicken before adding it to the sauce?

Grilling or pan-searing the marinated chicken adds a smoky, charred flavor that mimics traditional tandoori cooking. It’s optional, but highly recommended for authentic taste.

Can I make tikka masala without cream?

Yes, you can substitute cream with Greek yogurt, coconut milk, or a dairy-free cream alternative. Add it at the end and avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala is a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying curry that’s easy to make at home. With tender marinated chicken and a silky, spiced sauce, it’s the kind of meal that brings people together—warm, bold, and absolutely delicious. Serve it with rice, naan, or salad, and you’ve got a dish that’s as good as your favorite takeaway.

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