Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala

Name: Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons butter or ghee; 1 tablespoon oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon garam masala; ½ teaspoon turmeric; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity); Salt and pepper to taste; ¼ cup chopped cilantro (for garnish); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for finishing)

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

October 8, 2025

Updated:

October 8, 2025

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Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala is a deliciously flavorful dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a rich blend of spices and yogurt, creating a creamy sauce that’s perfect for pairing with rice or naan. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its aromatic spices and comforting flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe makes it easy for anyone to whip up a delicious meal.
Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices and creamy sauce creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving on various occasions, this Chicken Tikka Masala works well for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Healthy Ingredients: Utilizing Greek yogurt and lean chicken, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the chili powder to your preference, ensuring everyone can enjoy the dish just how they like it.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring spoons
Knife
Cutting board
Skillet or large frying pan

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every piece of chicken gets coated.
Skillet or large frying pan: A must-have for cooking the chicken and sauce evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons butter or ghee
1 tablespoon oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch ginger, grated
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon turmeric
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for finishing)

How to Make Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt. Mix well. Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the marinade. Ensure each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter or ghee with oil. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook until fragrant. Add ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, smoked paprika, chili powder; stir well.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

Add tomato paste and crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk along with sugar if using. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Remove marinated chicken from the fridge. Add it directly into the simmering sauce. Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Stir occasionally during cooking.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked through, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving warm alongside rice or naan bread.

Enjoy your homemade Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala!

How to Serve Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala

Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Steamed Basmati Rice

Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over a bed of fluffy basmati rice. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce, creating a delightful combination.

With Naan Bread

Pair with warm naan bread for dipping. This adds a wonderful texture and helps scoop up the creamy sauce.

With Roasted Vegetables

Complement your meal with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. Their sweetness balances the spices in the dish.

With Cucumber Raita

A cooling cucumber raita can provide a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the Chicken Tikka Masala. It’s easy to prepare by mixing yogurt with diced cucumber and spices.

With Side Salad

A simple side salad made of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal.

How to Perfect Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala

To achieve restaurant-quality Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala, follow these helpful tips.

Marinate well: Allow the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
Use fresh spices: Ensure your spices are fresh for maximum flavor. Old spices can lose their potency and affect the taste of your dish.
Cook on high heat: Searing the chicken over high heat gives it a nice char and depth of flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
Balance flavors: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, sugar, and spice levels based on your preference for a well-balanced sauce.
Finish with cream: Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for that luxurious finish that makes this dish so comforting.
Garnish generously: Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten up the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala

Pairing side dishes with Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala elevates your dining experience. Here are some excellent options.

Basmati Rice
Fluffy basmati rice serves as a perfect base for soaking up all that flavorful sauce.
Naan Bread
Soft naan is ideal for scooping up chicken and sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
Cucumber Raita
This cooling yogurt dip, made with diced cucumbers and mint, balances the heat from the spices beautifully.
Roasted Cauliflower
Seasoned roasted cauliflower adds a delicious crunch and subtle nuttiness when paired with the creamy tikka masala.
Vegetable Pulao
A fragrant mix of basmati rice cooked with assorted vegetables adds both color and nutrition to your meal.
Chickpea Salad
A refreshing chickpea salad with lemon juice, tomatoes, and onions brings brightness to each plate while complementing the main dish perfectly.
Samosas
These crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes or peas make for an enticing appetizer alongside your main course.
Aloo Gobi
This classic Indian dish of spiced potatoes and cauliflower is hearty enough to stand up beside Chicken Tikka Masala while enhancing its flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is skipping marination. Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices enhances flavor and tenderness. Always allow at least 1 hour for marination, or overnight for best results.
Another mistake is using low-quality spices. Fresh, high-quality spices make a significant difference in taste. Invest in whole spices and grind them yourself for maximum flavor.
A frequent error is not balancing the spice levels. Adjusting chili powder according to your heat preference is crucial. Taste the dish as you cook to find your ideal balance.
Many overlook the importance of simmering. Not allowing the sauce to simmer can lead to a bland dish. Simmer for at least 20 minutes to develop rich flavors.
Some may use too much cream or coconut milk. While creamy sauce is delicious, too much can overpower other flavors. Start with less and adjust based on taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala

Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers for easy storage.
You can freeze it for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala?
Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala is a flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken cooked in a spiced tomato cream sauce. It’s known for its rich flavors and creamy texture.

How long does it take to prepare Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala?
The total time for this recipe is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including marination, preparation, and cooking time.

Can I substitute chicken with another meat?
Yes! You can use turkey, beef, or lamb as alternatives while following the same marination and cooking process.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with paneer or vegetables like cauliflower or chickpeas, adjusting cooking times as needed.

What should I serve with Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala?
This dish pairs well with basmati rice, naan bread, or even quinoa for a nutritious option.

Final Thoughts

Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala is not only full of flavor but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding different vegetables. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that impresses family and friends!

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Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala

Why You’ll Love This Recipe