No need for takeout with this Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala. This dish is not only healthier but also bursts with incredible flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With minimal ingredients from your pantry, you can create a flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple steps and ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices, coconut milk, and chicken creates a depth of flavor that rivals restaurant dishes.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice or with naan for a complete meal that caters to everyone’s taste.
- Healthier Alternative: Using Greek yogurt and coconut milk gives you a creamy texture without the extra calories found in traditional recipes.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheats beautifully, perfect for lunch or dinner later in the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala, having the right tools on hand makes the process even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Large skillet
- Gallon-size zip-top bag
Importance of Each Tool
- Blender or food processor: Essential for creating a smooth curry paste that blends all flavors seamlessly.
- Large skillet: Provides enough space to cook the chicken evenly while allowing the sauce to reduce properly.
- Gallon-size zip-top bag: Perfect for marinating chicken, ensuring even coverage of flavors without mess.
Ingredients
For this delicious recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Curry Paste
- 1 medium yellow onion, quartered
- 1 shallot, halved
- 6 cloves garlic
- 2 (1-inch) pieces fresh ginger, peeled
- 3 tablespoons garam masala
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Chicken Dish
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
- ½ cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 can (14 ounce) full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 can (6 ounce) tomato paste
- ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
For Serving
- 3 cups cooked rice
How to Make Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala
Step 1: Make the Curry Paste
In a blender or food processor, combine the quartered onion, halved shallot, garlic cloves, peeled ginger pieces, garam masala, ground turmeric, kosher salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and lemon zest. Pulse until a smooth paste forms, about 1 minute.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a gallon-size zip-top bag, mix 2 tablespoons of the prepared curry paste with cubed chicken and Greek yogurt. Seal the bag tightly and massage it gently to coat the chicken completely. Let it marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate it overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ¼ cup to ½ cup of the remaining curry paste (adjust based on your spice preference) and cook until fragrant—about 1 minute. Stir in the marinated chicken along with coconut milk and tomato paste. Cover and cook until the chicken is fully cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 4: Final Touches and Serve
Remove the lid and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in chopped cilantro before serving over cooked rice. Enjoy your delightful Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala!
How to Serve Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala
Serving Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala can be a delightful experience that enhances its rich flavors. Here are some creative ideas to present this dish beautifully.
Over Steamed Rice
- Serve the coconut chicken tikka masala over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. This absorbs the delicious sauce and adds a comforting element.
With Naan Bread
- Pair the dish with warm naan bread for dipping. The soft texture of naan complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
On a Bed of Greens
- For a lighter option, serve the chicken over mixed greens. This adds freshness and crunch to each bite.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top before serving. This adds a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor.
With Lemon Wedges
- Add lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Squeezing fresh lemon juice enhances the overall taste.
Accompanied by Raita
- Serve with a side of cucumber raita for a cooling effect. The yogurt-based dip balances out the spices nicely.
How to Perfect Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala
To achieve the best results with your Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala, follow these helpful tips:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Marinate longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight allows for deeper flavor penetration.
- Adjust spice levels: Modify crushed red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference; less for mild, more for spicy.
- Simmer gently: Cook on medium heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking throughout.
- Add vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
- Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings towards the end of cooking to perfect your flavor balance.
Best Side Dishes for Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala
Pairing side dishes with your Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy dressing, perfect for balancing spiciness.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and additional nutrients to your plate.
- Pulao Rice: Fragrant rice cooked with spices and peas makes for an aromatic pairing that complements the dish well.
- Samosas: Crispy samosas filled with spiced potatoes are excellent as an appetizer alongside your main dish.
- Lentil Soup: A warm lentil soup provides an earthy contrast that pairs nicely with tikka masala flavors.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer crunch and heartiness that many enjoy alongside their curry.
- Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad with chickpeas, onions, and spices creates a nutritious complement to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor. Always allow at least 30 minutes for marinating, or preferably overnight.
- Not blending the paste thoroughly: A smooth curry paste ensures even flavor distribution. Blend the ingredients until completely smooth for the best results.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Keep an eye on cooking time; 15-20 minutes should suffice for tender chicken.
- Neglecting to adjust spice levels: Everyone’s spice tolerance varies. Start with less red pepper and taste before adding more to suit your preference.
- Using low-fat coconut milk: For a creamier texture and rich flavor, always use full-fat coconut milk in this recipe.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- This dish lasts up to 3 days when properly stored.
Freezing Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring every minute until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala so simple?
This recipe uses few pantry staples and simplifies the preparation process. It combines everything into a smooth paste that delivers maximum flavor without complicated steps.
Can I substitute ingredients in Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala?
Yes! You can replace chicken with tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian option. Also, feel free to adjust spices according to your taste.
How spicy is this Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat.
Can I serve this dish with sides other than rice?
Absolutely! This dish pairs well with naan bread, quinoa, or even a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
Final Thoughts
Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala offers incredible flavors that are easy to achieve at home. It’s versatile enough to customize with various proteins or vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful meal that feels warm and comforting!
Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala
Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala is the perfect solution for a comforting family dinner that doesn’t require takeout. This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken in a rich, creamy coconut sauce infused with aromatic spices. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a flavorful meal that delights everyone at the table. Serve it over fluffy rice or with warm naan for a complete experience that feels both indulgent and healthy. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors from the comfort of your own kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
- ½ cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 can (14 ounces) unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 6 cloves garlic
- 3 tablespoons garam masala
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Blend onion, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, salt, red pepper flakes, and lemon zest in a blender until smooth.
- In a zip-top bag, combine curry paste with chicken and yogurt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Heat skillet over medium heat; add remaining curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in marinated chicken along with coconut milk and tomato paste. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked.
- Remove lid; simmer an additional 5 minutes to thicken sauce. Stir in cilantro before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
