Bangladesh, a country rich in culture and flavors, offers a vast array of traditional dishes known to tantalize the taste buds. Among these, Chicken Tikka Masala stands out as a beloved dish, adored by many around the globe. Coupled with homemade Naan bread, it becomes an unbeatable combo of deliciousness. This article brings you a delightful journey through the steps to preparing this exquisite dish right in the comfort of your home.
The Ingredients
A harmonious blend of spices and quality ingredients is key to the perfect Chicken Tikka Masala. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts (500g, cubed)
- Plain Yogurt (1 cup, for marination)
- Fresh Garlic (1 tablespoon, minced)
- Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated)
- Ground Turmeric (1 teaspoon)
- Cumin Powder (1 teaspoon)
- Chili Powder (1 teaspoon, adjust to taste)
- Tomato Puree (1 cup)
- Cream (1/2 cup)
- Onions (2, finely chopped)
- Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons)
- Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Naan Bread (store-bought or homemade)
Marination & Preparation
The secret to the dish’s rich flavor lies in the marination process. Here’s how to marinate and prepare your chicken:
- Mix yogurt, half the garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, half the lemon juice, and salt in a bowl.
- Add the chicken cubes to the mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Heat oil in a pan. Saute the remaining garlic and onions until golden.
- Add the marinated chicken. Cook on medium heat until the chicken is tender.
- Pour in the tomato puree and chili powder, simmering the mixture until thickened.
- Finish with cream, the remaining lemon juice, and seasoning. Cook for an additional few minutes.
- Prepare your Naan bread according to the recipe or packet instructions.
- Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala hot, garnished with cilantro, alongside the Naan.
Crafting the Perfect Homemade Naan
Nothing complements Chicken Tikka Masala like warm, soft Naan bread. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own:
- Plain Flour (2 cups)
- Dry Yeast (1 tsp)
- Warm Water (3/4 cup)
- Sugar (1 tsp)
- Salt (1/2 tsp)
- Yogurt (3 tablespoons)
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
- Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, yogurt, and olive oil, combining into a soft dough.
- Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Let it rise for 1 hour.
- Divide the dough into balls, roll each out on a floured surface.
- Grill each piece on a hot skillet or griddle until it puffs up, flipping to cook both sides.
- Brush with melted butter before serving.
Key Takeaways
- The success of Chicken Tikka Masala lies in the marination. Giving it time to marinate enriches the flavor.
- Using fresh ingredients, especially for the spices and herbs, significantly enhances the dish’s taste.
- Homemade Naan bread, while optional, is a delightful addition that elevates the overall experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different part of the chicken?
Yes, while breast pieces are commonly used for their tenderness, thighs can also be used for a juicier flavor.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?
Coconut milk is an excellent dairy-free substitute that also complements the recipe’s flavors.
Can I make Chicken Tikka Masala ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Tikka Masala can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
How can I adjust the spice level?
The amount of chili powder can be adjusted according to your preference. Reducing it will make the dish milder, while adding more will increase the heat.
