Frequently Asked Questions
What is Angela's Ultimate Chicken Tikka Masala?
It is a vibrant Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken pieces marinated in a rich, creamy sauce infused with warm spices and a homemade curry paste.
What makes this Chicken Tikka Masala recipe 'ultimate'?
The recipe stands out because it uses a homemade curry paste for an authentic taste rather than store-bought alternatives.
How is the chicken prepared for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces to ensure they stay tender and cook evenly.
What is the base of the creamy sauce?
The sauce is made using a combination of 5 tablespoons of plain yogurt and 75 ml of heavy cream.
What type of rice is recommended as a side?
This dish is best served over fluffy basmati rice; the recipe includes 2 cups of uncooked basmati rice.
Is the curry paste store-bought or homemade?
It is a homemade curry paste featuring ingredients like curry powder, ginger, garlic, and white wine vinegar.
How much curry powder is required?
The recipe uses 4 tablespoons of curry powder to create a deep and flavorful spice profile.
How many garlic cloves are used in the dish?
The recipe calls for 4 minced garlic cloves to provide a robust aromatic base.
What kind of vinegar is used in the spice paste?
Two tablespoons of white wine vinegar are used to add a necessary tang to the homemade paste.
Does the recipe contain ginger?
Yes, it includes 2 teaspoons of minced ginger for a warm, spicy kick.
How are the onions prepared?
One small onion should be finely minced for this recipe.
Are whole peppercorns used in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe specifically lists 25 peppercorns as part of the spice blend.
Is there any citrus in the recipe?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of lime zest is added to provide a bright, citrusy note.
How much sugar is in the recipe?
The recipe includes 2 teaspoons of sugar to balance the heat and acidity of the spices.
Does this recipe use coriander?
Yes, it uses 1.5 teaspoons of coriander seeds to enhance the traditional Indian flavor profile.
Is this Chicken Tikka Masala considered spicy?
It is described as having vibrant flavors and warm spices, and it is tagged as a spicy chicken dish.
Can I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream?
While the main ingredients list heavy cream, 'coconut cream' is listed as a tag, suggesting it is a popular dairy-free substitute.
How much salt is added to the spice mix?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of salt.
What type of oil is used for the paste?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of olive oil.
Is black pepper used in addition to peppercorns?
Yes, 1/3 teaspoon of ground black pepper is used to further season the dish.
Is this a good recipe for entertaining guests?
Absolutely, the description highlights that it is perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests.
What is the texture of the sauce?
The sauce is described as rich and creamy, coating the tender pieces of chicken.
How many chicken breasts do I need?
You will need 3 chicken breasts for this recipe.
Is the yogurt used plain or flavored?
The recipe specifies 5 tablespoons of plain yogurt.
Does the recipe contain many ingredients?
The dish has a total of 16 ingredients, including the spices and the rice.
Is this considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal.
Can I use this recipe to make a meal for a family?
Yes, the use of 3 chicken breasts and 2 cups of rice generally provides a substantial meal for a small family.
What is the preparation style for the garlic and ginger?
Both the garlic and the ginger should be minced to blend smoothly into the curry paste.
Is the rice cooked before adding it to the dish?
No, the recipe lists 2 cups of basmati rice as 'uncooked,' so you will need to cook it separately to serve with the curry.
What cuisine category does this fall under?
This recipe is categorized as Indian cuisine.