Introduction

Chicken Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan Bread is a dish that represents the perfect fusion of bold Indian spices, creamy tomato-based curry, and soft, buttery naan infused with garlic. This combination is deeply satisfying and a true comfort meal that delights the senses. The chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, grilled or pan-seared for a smoky char, and then simmered in a luscious sauce made with tomatoes, cream, and aromatic spices. Paired with freshly baked garlic naan, this meal is both indulgent and heartwarming.

This dish has become one of the most beloved curries worldwide because it strikes a balance between spice and creaminess, making it approachable for everyone. The garlic naan acts as the perfect vessel to scoop up the thick, flavorful curry, ensuring that not a single drop of sauce is left behind.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s not just food—it’s an experience. The marinated chicken bursts with flavor, while the silky curry sauce wraps around it like a warm hug. Paired with garlicky naan, it’s a perfect marriage of texture and taste.

It’s also customizable—you can make it spicy, keep it mild, add veggies, or even substitute the protein. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while cooking is simply irresistible.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Restaurant-quality at home: Skip takeout and make a rich, authentic curry in your kitchen.
• Balanced flavors: Creamy, tangy, spicy, and smoky all in one.
• Complete meal: With naan bread included, you get both the main dish and the side.
• Crowd-pleaser: Even those new to Indian food fall in love with this dish.
• Versatile: Works for weeknight dinners or dinner parties.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus 1–2 hours marinating)
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (excluding marinating)
• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: ~600 kcal per serving (with naan)
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Indian / British-Indian fusion

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ½ lbs (700g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• ¾ cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp salt

For the Masala Sauce:

• 2 tbsp ghee or butter
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 2 tsp cumin powder
• 1 ½ tsp paprika
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for lighter option)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

For Garlic Naan Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup warm water
• ¼ cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and spices.
2. Add chicken chunks, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (overnight is best).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Cook chicken until charred on the outside and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Masala Sauce

1. In a large pot, heat ghee and oil. Add onions and sauté until golden.
2. Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1–2 minutes.
3. Stir in ground spices (coriander, cumin, paprika, garam masala, chili powder). Cook until fragrant.
4. Add tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in cream and sugar. Simmer until sauce thickens.
6. Add cooked chicken, coat with sauce, and simmer for another 5–10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Garlic Naan Bread

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, yogurt, and oil. Mix and knead into a soft dough.
3. Cover and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
4. Divide into 6 balls, roll out into ovals.
5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each naan until bubbles form, then flip.
6. Brush with melted butter mixed with garlic and sprinkle cilantro on top.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate chicken tikka masala in a bowl.
2. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with garlic naan bread.

How to Serve

• Serve the curry in deep bowls with hot naan on the side.
• Add basmati rice for an extra hearty meal.
• Pair with raita or a fresh cucumber salad for cooling balance.

Recipe Tips

• Use chicken thighs for more tender, flavorful bites.
• Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
• For smoky flavor, char chicken over open flame or broil briefly.
• Adjust cream for richness—coconut milk gives a lighter version.

Variations

• Vegetarian Tikka Masala: Replace chicken with paneer or roasted vegetables.
• Spicy Version: Add extra chili powder or fresh green chilies.
• Low-Calorie Version: Use light cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
• Whole Wheat Naan: Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Cheese Garlic Naan: Sprinkle grated cheese before flipping for cheesy naan.

Freezing and Storage

• Chicken Tikka Masala: Store in fridge for 3–4 days. Freeze up to 2 months. Reheat on stovetop with a splash of water or cream.
• Garlic Naan: Store in an airtight bag for 2 days at room temp or freeze up to 1 month. Reheat on skillet or oven.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or grill pan (for chicken)
• Heavy-bottomed pot (for sauce)
• Rolling pin (for naan)
• Cast iron skillet or tawa (for naan cooking)

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut yogurt for marinade and coconut milk in the sauce.

Q2: Can I bake naan instead of skillet cooking?
Yes, bake at 475°F (245°C) on a pizza stone for 2–3 minutes per side.

Q3: What if I don’t have garam masala?
Substitute with equal parts cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves.

Q4: Can I make this in advance?
Yes, both chicken and sauce can be prepared ahead and combined before serving.

Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan Bread is more than a dish—it’s a culinary experience that combines rich, spiced curry with pillowy, garlicky bread. It’s bold yet comforting, authentic yet adaptable, and truly a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.