No need for takeout with this Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala.... it is healthier, has incredible flavor, and is made with only a few pantry staple ingredients!
Ingredients
CURRY PASTE:
1 medium yellow onion, quartered
1 shallot, halved
6 cloves garlic
2 (1-inch) pieces fresh ginger, peeled
3 Tablespoons garam masala
2 teaspoons ground turmeric
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Zest of 1 lemon
CHICKEN
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
1/2 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
1 can (14 ounce) full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
In a blender or food processor, combine the onion, shallot, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, salt and red pepper flakes, and lemon zest. Pulse until a smooth paste forms, about 1 minute.
To make the chicken:
In a gallon-size zip-top bag, combine 2 tablespoons of the curry paste, the chicken, and the yogurt. Seal the bag and massage the mixture into the chicken to cover completely. Marinate to room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate up to overnight.
Heat a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup (use to your taste) of the curry paste and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the chicken, coconut milk, and tomato paste. Cover and cook until the chicken is cooked through, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the lid and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes more.
Stir in the cilantro and serve the chicken over rice.
Recipe Note
Curry Paste: You can double the curry paste and store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 month, or in the freezer for up to 4 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight. Alternately, you can use store-bought yellow curry paste.
