Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients

While the original Indian Chicken Tikka Masala is known for its bold and spicy flavors, our Mediterranean adaptation brings a milder and more herbaceous profile. We have incorporated Mediterranean spices and herbs, such as oregano, thyme, and paprika, to create a unique twist on this beloved dish. The sauce also features Mediterranean ingredients like olives and sun-dried tomatoes for added depth of flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Chicken Tikka Masala, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60g) sliced black olives 1/4 cup (60g) sliced black olives
• 2 tablespoons chopped sun-dried tomatoes 2 tablespoons chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 10g (Sugars: 5g)
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, cumin, and coriander. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
2. 2.
   Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned.
3. 3.
   Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the marinated chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. 4.
   Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
5. 5.
   Stir in the heavy cream, sliced black olives, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. 6.
   Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Sun-dried tomatoes — If using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drain them well before chopping.
• Tomato sauce — Opt for a high-quality tomato sauce to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Tikka Masala with warm pita bread or steamed rice for a complete meal.
• If you prefer a creamier sauce, increase the amount of heavy cream according to your taste.
• Customize the dish by adding your favorite Mediterranean vegetables, such as artichoke hearts or roasted eggplant.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop further.

Serving advice

Serve the Mediterranean Chicken Tikka Masala hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Accompany it with a side of warm pita bread or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Presentation advice

For an appealing presentation, place the Mediterranean Chicken Tikka Masala in a shallow serving dish. Drizzle a swirl of olive oil on top and sprinkle some dried oregano for an extra touch of Mediterranean flair. Serve with a sprig of fresh parsley on each plate.