One-Pan Chicken Tikka Masala Delight
Indulge in a simplified yet exquisitely flavorful version of Chicken Tikka Masala! This dish marries tender chicken tenders with a fragrant blend of spices, simmered in a rich tomato cream sauce, all in just one skillet. Perfectly balanced with aromatic garlic and ginger, along with the added freshness of cilantro, this recipe ensures a delightful experience without the fuss traditionally associated with Indian cuisine. Ready in less than 30 minutes, it's ideal for a cozy dinner for two. Serve alongside brown basmati rice for a complete, satisfying meal that's both nutritious and bursting with flavor.
2
Servings
300
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
garam masala
2 (teaspoons)
salt
1/4 (teaspoon)
turmeric
1/8 (teaspoon)
all-purpose flour
1/4 (cup)
chicken tenders
8 (ounces)
canola oil
2 (teaspoons, divided)
garlic cloves, minced
3 (cloves)
sweet onion, diced
1 (small)
fresh ginger, minced
2 (teaspoons)
diced tomatoes
1 (15-ounce can, undrained)
whipping cream
2 (tablespoons)
fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 (cup)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, mix together the garam masala, salt, and turmeric until well combined.
2
Place the all-purpose flour in a shallow dish. Lightly sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of the spice mixture over the chicken tenders, then dredge the chicken in the flour, ensuring it's evenly coated. Set aside the remaining spice mix and 1.5 teaspoons of flour for later use.
3
Heat 1 teaspoon of canola oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken tenders and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until browned. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the remaining 1 teaspoon of canola oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, and minced ginger, stirring often until they start to brown, about 3 to 5 minutes.
5
Add the reserved spice mix to the pan and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
6
Sprinkle the reserved 1.5 teaspoons of flour over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated, then add the diced tomatoes along with their juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring often, until it thickens and the onion is tender, approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
7
Finally, stir in the whipping cream and return the chicken, including any collected juices, to the skillet. Allow it to come to a simmer again and cook over medium-low heat until the chicken is cooked through, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
8
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving it over brown basmati rice.
Nutrition Information
12.5g
Fat
25g
Carbs
17.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is One-Pan Chicken Tikka Masala Delight?
This is a simplified, one-skillet version of the classic Indian dish, featuring chicken tenders in a rich tomato cream sauce.
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
The entire recipe can be completed in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is specifically portioned to serve 2 people.
What are the main spices used in this dish?
The primary spices are garam masala and turmeric, which give the dish its signature aromatic flavor.
What should I serve with Chicken Tikka Masala?
It is best served over brown basmati rice for a complete and nutritious meal.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish is fragrant and flavorful but generally mild; you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less garam masala.
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes, you can use 8 ounces of chicken breast cut into small strips or bite-sized pieces.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 17.5 grams of protein per serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it is not gluten-free because it uses all-purpose flour to dredge the chicken and thicken the sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whipping cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
What type of onion is recommended?
A small sweet onion, diced, is recommended for its mild and pleasant flavor profile.
Do I need to drain the canned tomatoes?
No, use the 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes along with their juice to help create the sauce.
Why is the chicken dredged in flour?
Dredging the chicken helps it brown better in the skillet and subsequently helps thicken the tomato cream sauce.
Can I use fresh ginger?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 2 teaspoons of minced fresh ginger for the best flavor.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe calls for 3 minced garlic cloves.
What type of oil should I use for frying?
Canola oil is recommended, though any neutral oil with a high smoke point will work.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is preferred for garnish, but you can use a smaller amount of dried cilantro if fresh is unavailable.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Masala?
Yes, this dish freezes well in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What is the total fat content?
Each serving contains about 12.5 grams of fat.
Can I add vegetables to this one-pan meal?
Yes, you can stir in spinach or green peas during the final simmering stage for extra nutrition.
How do I reheat this dish?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
What if I don't have garam masala?
You can use a mix of cumin, coriander, cardamom, and cinnamon as a quick substitute.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is an excellent meal prep option as the flavors often deepen and improve the next day.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when it is opaque throughout and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I use a different type of rice?
While brown basmati is suggested, you can also use white basmati, jasmine rice, or even quinoa.
What is the purpose of turmeric in this recipe?
Turmeric adds a vibrant golden color and a subtle earthy flavor to the sauce.
How many grams of carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this recipe require any special kitchen equipment?
No, you only need a medium skillet and a few mixing bowls to prepare this one-pan meal.