Deliciously Authentic: Unveiling the Secrets to Crafting Chicken Tikka Masala from Scratch - A Homestyle Oven-Baked Recipe

India is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, offering a wide range of dishes that vary from region to region. One of the most famous recipes from India is "Chicken Tikka Masala." It's a delicious and popular dish that has gained international recognition. Here's a brief overview of the recipe:

Chicken Tikka Masala:

Ingredients:

• Boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Yogurt
• Ginger-garlic paste
• Garam masala
• Turmeric powder
• Cumin powder
• Coriander powder
• Red chili powder
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Oil
• Onions (finely chopped)
• Tomatoes (pureed)
• Heavy cream or cashew paste (for richness)
• Butter
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Marinade:

In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, lemon juice, and salt to taste.

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are coated well. Let it marinate for at least 2-4 hours (overnight for best results) in the refrigerator.

Cooking:

Preheat the oven or grill and cook the marinated chicken until it's tender and has a slightly charred appearance (you can also use a tandoor for authenticity, but an oven or grill works just fine).

Sauce:

In a separate pan, heat some oil or butter and sauté the finely chopped onions until they become golden brown.

Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.

Add garam masala, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook the spices for a couple of minutes to release their flavors.

Pour in the heavy cream or cashew paste to add richness to the sauce. Adjust the consistency with water or chicken broth, if necessary.

Add the cooked chicken tikka pieces to the sauce and let them simmer for a few minutes so that the flavors meld together.

Garnish:

Once the chicken tikka masala is ready, garnish it with a drizzle of heavy cream and fresh coriander leaves.

Chicken Tikka Masala is best served with naan, roti, or steamed rice. It's a delectable dish loved by many and showcases the rich and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine. Keep in mind that variations may exist across different regions and households, so you may encounter different takes on this beloved dish.