Cheap Chicken Tikka Masala
Recipe by Joshua Weissman
A budget-friendly version of classic Chicken Tikka Masala that uses a single garam masala blend and a few pantry staples. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in yogurt, then seared and simmered in a rich tomato‑cream sauce. Ready in about an hour and perfect served over steamed rice.
MediumIndianServes 4
Printable version with shopping checklist
Source Video
31m
Prep
32m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 13m
Total
Cost Breakdown
Total cost:$10.78
Per serving:$2.70
Critical Success Points
- • Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices (Step 1‑2)
- • Properly searing the chicken to develop flavor (Step 4)
- • Blending the tomato‑spice mixture to a smooth consistency (Step 8)
- • Simmering the chicken fully in the sauce before adding cream (Step 9)
- • Reducing with heavy cream to achieve the final velvety texture (Step 10)
Safety Warnings
- • Hot oil can splatter – use a splatter guard and keep face away while searing.
- • Blending hot sauce can create pressure; vent the blender lid slightly or let the sauce cool a few minutes before blending.
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