Chicken Tikka Masala

Straightforward recipe for Chicken Tikka Masala. Chicken with yogurt and spicesin a tomato cream sauce.

• Ready In: 1 hr 20 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  cup yogurt
• 1  tablespoon lemon juice
• 2  teaspoons ground cumin
• 1  teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2  teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 2  teaspoons fresh ground black pepper
• 1  tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 4  teaspoons salt (to taste)
• 3  boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 4  long  skewers
• 1  tablespoon butter
• 1  garlic clove, minced
• 1  jalapeno pepper, finely chopped
• 2  teaspoons ground cumin
• 2  teaspoons paprika
• 3  teaspoons salt (to taste)
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1  cup heavy cream
• 1⁄4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, 2 teaspoons cumin, cinnamon, cayenne, black pepper, ginger, and 4 teaspoons salt. Stir in chicken, cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
2. Preheat a grill for high heat.
3. Lightly oil the grill grate. Thread chicken onto skewers, and discard marinade. Grill until juices run clear, about 5 minutes on each side.
4. Melt butter in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Saute garlic and jalapeno for 1 minute. Season with 2 teaspoons cumin, paprika, and 3 teaspoons salt. Stir in tomato sauce and cream. Simmer on low heat until sauce thickens, about 20 minutes. Add grilled chicken, and simmer for 10 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve with rice or pita bread.