Coconut chicken Tikka Masala

This coconut chicken tikka masala is so easy to make and it is very delicious. Indian food uses the most delectable spices to make the most wonderful dishes. This dish uses the sweet flavor of coconut, the wonderful aroma of garam masala, and the deep earthy flavor of tomato paste to create the perfect pairing of tasty flavors. Serve it with some basmati rice and a side of steamed vegetables and you have a tasty meal.

Let’s get started.

INGREDIENTS:

1 Onion – diced
4 Cloves of Garlic – minced
1-inch piece of Ginger – peeled and slightly crushed
2 Tbsp. Garam Masala
1 1/2 Tsp. Turmeric
Salt and Pepper – to taste
1 Tsp. Red Pepper Flakes ( or to heat preference)
2 Boneless Chicken Breasts – Cubed
1/2 C. Plain Greek Yogurt
14 Oz. Full Fat Coconut Milk
4 Tbsp. Tomato Paste
1/3 C. Cilantro (or Parsley) – chopped
Juice of 1/2 Lemon

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a small food processor or blender, combine the onion, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Blend until a smooth paste forms.
2. Add the chicken, yogurt, and 2 tbsp of the paste to a bowl. Mix well and cover with plastic wrap. Let stand on the counter for 30 minutes to 1 hour or up to overnight in the fridge.
3. Heat a large skillet over med-low heat and add the remaining paste and a bit of oil. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Add the chicken and marinade into the pan along with the tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook on low (covered) for 20 to 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning or sticking.
5. Remove the lid and add the lemon juice and cilantro. Stir to mix well and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Serve over rice with extra cilantro and veggies.

• if you like heat you can add 2 tsp of red pepper flakes to the above mixture and blend to paste form. If you are not a spicy fan you can leave out the red pepper flakes.
• You can add some broccoli to the chicken mixture for the last 5 to 8 minutes of cooking for a whole meal or you can make some vegetables separate and serve them separately.