Spicy Mango Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: Spicy Mango Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 1 tbsp minced garlic; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp turmeric; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt to taste; 3 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 large onion, diced; 1 cup canned tomato puree; 1/2 cup mango puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 tsp paprika; Fresh cilantro for garnish

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 30 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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Spicy Mango Chicken Tikka Masala is a vibrant twist on the classic Indian dish. The sweetness of mango pairs beautifully with warm spices, creating a dish that's rich, tangy, and just a bit fiery. It's perfect for when you're craving something comforting yet exciting.

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Ingredients for Spicy Mango Chicken Tikka Masala

Boneless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, perfect for soaking up all the spices. Plain yogurt acts as a tenderizer, ensuring the chicken remains moist. The lemon juice adds a fresh, tangy bite that cuts through the richness. Ginger and garlic provide depth and warmth, essential in any Indian-inspired dish.

Cumin, garam masala, and turmeric are the backbone spices, each contributing its unique aroma and flavor. A touch of cayenne pepper brings in the heat, balanced by the sweet mango puree. The tomato puree adds body and a slight acidity, while heavy cream lends a luxurious texture. Finally, a sprinkle of paprika enhances the color and adds a smoky note.

Tips & Tricks

If you're short on time, marinate the chicken the night before.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance.
Use fresh mango puree if available for a more vibrant flavor.
Double the sauce ingredients if you like a saucier dish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with warm naan or basmati rice to soak up the sauce. A side of cooling cucumber raita can balance the heat, making each bite refreshing and delightful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead?: Yes, but keep in mind that thighs are more forgiving and remain juicy. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.
Is there a dairy-free alternative?: You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. It will slightly alter the flavor but still be delicious.

Spicy Mango Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe Walkthrough

Start by mixing together your marinade ingredients: the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and a generous pinch of salt. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly in this mixture. Cover the bowl and let it rest in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavors meld.

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F. Once ready, lay the chicken pieces out on a baking sheet. They'll need about 20 minutes in the oven, just until they're slightly charred at the edges.

Meanwhile, heat some vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it's golden brown. This will form the base of your sauce. Stir in the tomato puree and mango puree, along with the paprika. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Once the sauce is fragrant and cohesive, stir in the heavy cream. Add the baked chicken to the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow everything to cook together for another 10 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is rich and creamy.

Before serving, sprinkle the dish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Balanced flavors with a hint of sweetness from mango.
Perfectly spiced with a gentle kick of heat.
Easy to prepare with simple steps and common ingredients.
Great for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special meal.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs

1 cup plain yogurt

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp grated ginger

1 tbsp minced garlic

2 tsp ground cumin

2 tsp garam masala

1 tsp turmeric

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

Salt to taste

3 tbsp vegetable oil

1 large onion, diced

1 cup canned tomato puree

1/2 cup mango puree

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 tsp paprika

Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour.

2. Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread marinated chicken on a baking sheet, cook for 20 minutes or until slightly charred.

3. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until golden brown.

4. Add tomato puree, mango puree, and paprika to the pan. Simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Stir in heavy cream, add baked chicken to sauce, and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

6. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

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