Save A fusion dish that combines the bold, aromatic flavors of classic chicken tikka masala with tender pasta in a rich, creamy sauce.
This creamy chicken tikka masala pasta is a favorite in my household, bringing together familiar flavors in a delightful twist that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Chicken Marinade: 500 g (1 lb) boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces 120 g (½ cup) plain Greek yogurt 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp paprika ½ tsp turmeric 1 tsp garam masala ¾ tsp salt
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or rigatoni pasta Water for boiling 1 tsp salt
- Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter 1 tbsp vegetable oil 1 medium onion finely chopped 2 cloves garlic minced 1 tbsp ginger grated 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp ground coriander ½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat) 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes 200 ml (¾ cup + 2 tbsp) heavy cream 60 ml (¼ cup) chicken broth or water 1 tsp sugar Salt to taste 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a bowl combine all marinade ingredients with the chicken Mix well cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for best flavor)
- Step 2:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions Drain and set aside
- Step 3:
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat Add marinated chicken (shake off excess marinade) and cook for 5 6 minutes until browned and cooked through Remove chicken and set aside
- Step 4:
- In the same skillet melt butter over medium heat Add onion and sauté for 4 5 minutes until soft and golden
- Step 5:
- Add garlic and ginger cook for 1 minute Stir in cumin paprika coriander and chili powder cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
- Step 6:
- Add crushed tomatoes sugar and a pinch of salt Simmer for 8 10 minutes stirring occasionally until thickened
- Step 7:
- Reduce heat to low Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth mixing well Return cooked chicken to the sauce and simmer for 3 minutes
- Step 8:
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce Warm through for 2 3 minutes
- Step 9:
- Adjust seasoning if needed Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving
Save This dish always brings the family together, reminding me of cozy nights filled with laughter and great food.
Required Tools
Large skillet or sauté pan Large pot for boiling pasta Mixing bowls Measuring cups and spoons Knife and cutting board Colander
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (yogurt butter cream) and gluten (pasta) May contain traces of nuts depending on yogurt brand check labels For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta
Nutritional Information
Per serving Calories 590 Total Fat 22 g Carbohydrates 59 g Protein 38 g
Save This creamy chicken tikka masala pasta is sure to impress and satisfy any craving for bold flavors with creamy comfort.
Common recipe questions
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, though 2–4 hours enhances the flavors best.
- → What pasta types work well in this dish?
Penne or rigatoni hold the sauce nicely, but any short pasta like fusilli or farfalle works well.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Yes, modify the chili powder amount to suit your preferred heat intensity.
- → What can be used as a vegetarian alternative?
Paneer or firm tofu are great protein substitutes, absorbing the spices and creaminess deliciously.
- → How to best garnish the finished dish?
Freshly chopped cilantro adds a bright, herbal note complementing the creamy sauce perfectly.
- → Can this dish be prepared gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta varieties to accommodate gluten-free needs without compromising taste.