Taiwanese-style Chicken Tikka Masala

Ingredients

While the original Indian Chicken Tikka Masala is known for its rich and spicy tomato-based sauce, the Taiwanese adaptation adds a unique twist. Taiwanese cuisine incorporates a variety of local spices and ingredients, such as star anise, soy sauce, and sesame oil. These additions give the dish a distinct Taiwanese flavor profile, making it a delightful fusion of Indian and Taiwanese culinary traditions. 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 vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons Taiwanese five-spice powder 2 teaspoons Taiwanese five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato puree 1 cup (240ml) tomato puree
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 10g)
• Carbohydrates: 10g (Sugars: 5g)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with Taiwanese five-spice powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Increase the heat to medium-high and add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
5. 5.
   Reduce the heat to medium and add the tomato puree, coconut milk, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. 6.
   Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. 7.
   Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Make sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Taiwanese five-spice powder — If you can't find Taiwanese five-spice powder, you can substitute it with Chinese five-spice powder.
• Tomato puree — Use a good quality tomato puree for a rich and flavorful sauce.
• Coconut milk — Opt for full-fat coconut milk to achieve a creamy texture.
• Sesame oil — Toasted sesame oil adds a nutty flavor, but regular sesame oil can be used as well.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili powder or add chopped fresh chili peppers.
• Serve the Taiwanese-style Chicken Tikka Masala with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
• Marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavors.
• Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more coconut milk or tomato puree, according to your preference.
• Garnish with a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Taiwanese-style Chicken Tikka Masala hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Accompany it with steamed rice or naan bread for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Taiwanese-style Chicken Tikka Masala in a vibrant bowl or plate, allowing the rich tomato-based sauce to shine. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro for an added pop of color.