Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

  • Author: Ekani Ella
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling + Simmering
  • Cuisine: Indian

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.