Taste the World

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Last updated: May 2026

Chicken tikka masala is ideal for an easy curry night at home. This version takes its cue from Indian food culture and UK curry-house favourites, with a practical sauce and simple swaps.

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Recipe Summary

Prep time
20 minutes
Cook time
30 minutes
Total time
50 minutes
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
Estimated cost
£9-£13
Cuisine
Indian
Inspired by
Indian food culture and UK curry-house favourites

Ingredients

  • 600g chicken thighs or breast, chopped
  • 150g plain yoghurt
  • 2 tsp tikka spice blend or garam masala
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp tomato puree
  • 400g tinned tomatoes
  • 100ml cream, yoghurt or evaporated milk
  • Rice, naan and coriander, to serve

Method

  1. 1

    Coat chicken with yoghurt and tikka spice blend, then leave for 10 minutes or longer if you have time.

  2. 2

    Brown the chicken in oil, then lift it out of the pan.

  3. 3

    Cook onion until soft, then add garlic, ginger and tomato puree.

  4. 4

    Add tinned tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.

  5. 5

    Return the chicken to the pan and cook until done.

  6. 6

    Stir in cream, yoghurt or evaporated milk and serve with rice or naan.

Easy UK & European Ingredient Swaps

IngredientEasy swap
Tikka spice blendGaram masala with paprika and a pinch of chilli
GheeButter or neutral oil
Kashmiri chilli powderMild chilli powder with paprika
Fresh corianderFlat-leaf parsley or omit

Budget Cooking Tips

  • Use chicken thighs for better value and flavour.
  • Tinned tomatoes and tomato puree make a cheaper sauce base than jars.
  • Cook extra rice and use leftovers for lunch.
  • Add peppers or spinach to stretch the curry.

Plan the Holiday Behind This Dish

Chicken tikka masala connects Indian flavours with UK curry-night culture. While BudgetHolidayHub builds out dedicated India travel pages, use the confirmed Asia and long-haul links below for budget trip planning.

Asia Browse Asia holiday guides Explore guide → Sri Lanka Sri Lanka budget travel guide Explore guide → Malaysia Malaysia budget travel guide Explore guide → Worldwide Cheapest holiday destinations from the UK Explore guide →
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FAQs

Can I make chicken tikka masala without a jar sauce?

Yes. Tinned tomatoes, onion, garlic, ginger and spices make a simple sauce base.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. It keeps well in the fridge for 2 days and often tastes better after resting.

What can I use instead of cream?

Use evaporated milk, plain yoghurt or a splash of milk with a small knob of butter.