Indian Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Indian Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich, creamy curry with tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce for a comforting, restaurant-style meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or yogurt
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika or chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Heat oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and golden.
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Add garam masala, cumin, paprika, and turmeric, and cook for 1 minute to release aroma.
- Mix in tomato puree and tomato paste, stirring well. Simmer for a few minutes.
- Pour in cream or yogurt and stir until smooth and combined.
- Add cooked chicken and coat well in the sauce. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free option.
- Add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra texture.
- Adjust spice level with more or less chili powder.
- Add lemon juice for brightness.
- Serve with rice, naan, or flatbread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
