The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Some say Chicken Tikka Masala was invented in India. Others swear it was born in a British curry house when a chef dumped tomato soup into a dry tikka dish to appease a customer. Regardless of its origins, one thing is certain: this creamy, smoky, spiced curry is the king of all chicken curries.

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Pair it with our Creamy Garlic Herb Yogurt Dip and Sauce and some storebought gluten free naan bread for the ultimate homemade takeout night. Then start drooling over your next creamy, spiced masterpiece our super easy Gluten Free Thai Yellow Curry Recipe.

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This rich and creamy gluten-free chicken tikka curry is packed with bold spices, tender chicken, and a silky tomato-based sauce. Serve it with basmati rice or gluten-free naan for the ultimate comfort meal!

The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe is rich, tangy, slightly sweet, and has just the right amount of spice to make you feel like a curry connoisseur without setting your mouth on fire. And the best part? You can make restaurant-quality Chicken Tikka Masala at home in about an hour—with no questionable takeout containers involved. Pair it with a cooling Cucumber Raita Sauce and a side of Saag Aloo, a mildly spiced spinach and potato dish.

Want another exotic meal to impress your family? This easy Thai Yellow Curry is here for you.

The Best Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe (Gluten-Free & Better Than Takeout!)

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breast), cut into bite-sized pieces

• ½ cup (120g) plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece ginger, grated

For the Masala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter or oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece ginger, grated

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• ½ teaspoon turmeric

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for added spice)

• 1 (14oz/400g) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)

• ½ cup (120ml) water (if needed for consistency)

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices.

2. Add the chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for max flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a grill pan, skillet, or broiler over medium-high heat.

2. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until slightly charred and cooked through.

3. Set aside while you make the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Masala Sauce

1. In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add the onions and sauté until soft and golden brown (about 5 minutes).

3. Stir in garlic, ginger, and spices and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Stir in the cream (or coconut milk) and let the sauce thicken for 5 more minutes.

6. Add the grilled chicken to the sauce and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

2. Serve with gluten-free naan, basmati rice, or just a spoon (because it’s that good).

How to Get That Classic Tikka Masala Flavor

1. Charred Chicken = Authentic Taste

Traditional tikka is cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), but a grill pan or broiler gives you that same smoky char. Pan-frying works too, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor.

2. Balance the Spices

The magic of tikka masala is in the balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors. Too acidic? Add a pinch of sugar. Too thick? Add a splash of water. Too mild? Up the chili powder.

3. Yogurt Marinade = Tender Chicken

The lactic acid in yogurt breaks down tough proteins, making the chicken juicy, flavorful, and fall-apart tender.

Why This Chicken Tikka Masala is Gluten-Free

• No flour-based thickeners – The sauce thickens naturally from the cream and tomatoes.

• Gluten-free spices – Some spice blends contain hidden wheat, so use certified gluten-free garam masala.

• No gluten contamination – Cook in a clean pan and serve with gluten-free naan or rice.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best enjoyed with:

✔ Gluten-Free Naan – Soft, pillowy, and perfect for scooping up that sauce.

✔ Basmati Rice – The light, fluffy texture complements the rich curry.

✔ Roasted Vegetables – A side of roasted cauliflower or carrots adds a nice crunch.

✔ Cucumber Raita – A cool, creamy contrast to the warm spices.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Tikka Masala is rich, creamy, packed with flavor, and ridiculously easy to make at home. Whether you're trying to impress dinner guests or just craving a cozy, comforting bowl of curry, this recipe delivers every time.

Make it once, and I guarantee you’ll never go back to takeout.