Print

Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

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.

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.