Experience the vibrant flavors of Bangladesh with this classic Chicken Tikka Masala Roti recipe. Chicken Tikka Masala, a beloved dish celebrated for its rich, spicy creaminess, finds a perfect companion in soft, warm roti. This combination promises an enchanting culinary journey, offering a taste of Bangladeshi tradition and hospitality in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tikka:
- 1 kg chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Masala Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnishing
For the Roti:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Water, as needed
- Butter, for serving (optional)
Preparation
Marinating and Cooking the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, black pepper, ginger, and salt. Add chicken pieces, mixing until they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your grill, pan, or oven to medium-high heat. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Preparing the Masala Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until they become soft and golden brown.
- Stir in turmeric, cumin, and paprika, cooking for about 1 minute. Add pureed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Reduce heat, add in the grilled chicken, and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Stir in the cream, and simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Making the Roti:
- In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour and salt. Gradually add water, kneading to form a smooth dough.
- Divide the dough into small balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin circle.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the roti until it puffs up, flipping once. Each side should have golden brown spots.
- Serve the roti warm, optionally brushing with butter for added flavor.
Key Takeaways
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances its flavors and tenderness.
- Authentic Chicken Tikka Masala is known for its rich, creamy texture and aromatic spices.
- Pairing Chicken Tikka Masala with freshly made Roti elevates the dining experience, offering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
- Adjusting the level of spices in the recipe can tailor the dish to suit personal taste preferences, making it versatile and universally enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use coconut milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, coconut milk can be a delicious dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, offering a slightly different yet equally rich flavor profile.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?
While not strictly necessary, marinating the chicken overnight will significantly enhance the depth of flavor in the chicken. However, a minimum of 1 hour of marinating is recommended.
Can I make this recipe with other types of meat?
Absolutely. While chicken is traditional, you can easily substitute it with lamb, beef, or even paneer for a vegetarian version.
How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
The spice level can be easily adjusted by increasing or reducing the amount of cayenne pepper and black pepper according to your preference.