Grilled Chicken Tikka Masala with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Introduction

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. By grilling the chicken on the Arteflame, you can add a smoky, charred flavor to the chicken that enhances the traditional flavors of this rich, flavorful dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• Salt to taste

For the Masala Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter or oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 ½ cups tomato puree (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Basmati rice or naan bread

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices (garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, and salt). Add the chicken chunks, ensuring they are evenly coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Step 2: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

Light the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins under stacked firewood. Let it heat up for about 20 minutes. The center grate will give the chicken a nice char, adding a smoky flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Skewer the marinated chicken pieces or place them directly on the hot center grate. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful char. Remove the chicken from the grill and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Masala Sauce

In a large pan or cast-iron skillet placed on the outer flat top of the grill (or stovetop), melt the butter and sauté the chopped onions until golden and softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic, ginger, and spices (cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, and chili powder) and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in the tomato puree and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk), allowing the sauce to simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Add the grilled chicken to the masala sauce, stirring to coat the chicken pieces in the creamy, spiced sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish the Chicken Tikka Masala with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete, flavorful meal.

Tips

• Use skewers: If grilling chicken thighs or breasts, threading them on skewers makes turning them on the grill easier and ensures even cooking.
• Char the chicken well: The grilled, smoky flavor adds an extra layer of complexity to the dish, so let the chicken develop a nice char on the grill.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Tikka Masala: Use grilled paneer or tofu in place of chicken for a vegetarian version.
2. Spicy Tikka Masala: Increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh green chilies for extra heat.
3. Coconut Tikka Masala: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free and slightly tropical twist.
4. Lamb Tikka Masala: Replace the chicken with marinated lamb chunks for a richer, more robust flavor.
5. Seafood Tikka Masala: Use grilled shrimp or fish fillets for a lighter version of this creamy dish.

Best Pairings

• Basmati rice: Light, fluffy rice that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Naan bread: Perfect for scooping up the rich, spiced sauce.
• Raita: A cooling yogurt-based dip to balance the heat of the masala.

Conclusion

This Grilled Chicken Tikka Masala adds a smoky, charred flavor to the classic Indian dish. With tender, flavorful chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, it's perfect for serving with rice or naan for a rich, satisfying meal.