Description
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.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
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.