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Easy One-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe with Light Coconut Milk for Perfect Flavor

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A quick and easy one-pot chicken tikka masala using light coconut milk for a creamy, flavorful, and lighter twist on the classic dish. Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 ml) light coconut milk
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth or water
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well-coated and let sit for 10 minutes.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add spices and tomato paste: Stir in turmeric, chili powder, coriander, and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to toast the spices.
  4. Cook the chicken: Add marinated chicken pieces to the pot. Brown lightly on all sides, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Simmer the sauce: Pour in light coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir well, bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until chicken is tender and sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Final seasoning and garnish: Taste and adjust salt or spice as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

If sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered a few minutes to thicken. If too thick, add a splash more broth. Use chicken thighs for juiciness. Marinate at least 10 minutes for best flavor. Avoid burning garlic by cooking gently. For gluten-free, use almond flour if thickening is needed. Dairy-free option: use coconut yogurt or omit yogurt in marinade.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken tikka masala, one-pot recipe, light coconut milk, easy dinner, Indian spices, quick chicken curry, creamy chicken tikka

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/easy-one-pot-chicken-tikka-masala-recipe-with-light-coconut-milk-for-perfect-flavor/