Spicy Chicken Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan and Seasoned Saag Paneer
Tips for Experienced Cooks
Pay attention to the spice levels, as they can significantly impact the final dish. Feel free to toast whole spices before grinding them fresh for an even more fragrant and vibrant flavor. While making the Garlic Naan, experiment with adding nigella seeds or finely chopped coriander to the dough for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cubed)
Step 2: Make the Tikka Masala Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, and salt. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes.
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 inch ginger (grated)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Finish the Tikka Masala
Add the marinated chicken to the sauce and stir to coat. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Stir in the butter and chopped cilantro.
- Marinated chicken from Step 1
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 0.25 cup chopped cilantro
Step 4: Make the Garlic Naan
In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and water. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1 hour. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a flat naan shape. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the naan for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with minced garlic.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Step 5: Prepare the Saag Paneer
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Add the paneer, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, until the flavors are combined.
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 inch ginger (grated)
- 1 bunch spinach (washed and chopped)
- 1 cup paneer (diced)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 2 pounds chicken thigh
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 cup paneer
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 1 whole onion
- 1 whole tomato
- 1 bunch spinach
- 1/4 cup cilantro
Seasonings & Spices
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 inch ginger
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
Pantry Items
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon oil