Ever wondered how to recreate a restaurant-quality Chicken Tikka Masala right in your own kitchen? This creamy, spiced curry is a global favorite – rich with aromatic flavors, tender chicken pieces, and a silky tomato-based sauce that clings to every bite. It’s comfort food with a luxurious twist, and Gordon Ramsay’s approach ensures you get the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and depth.

With the right method, you’ll achieve that signature smoky char on the chicken and a sauce so velvety it could rival your favorite Indian takeaway. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a date night, or simply to treat yourself, this dish will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with pure satisfaction.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To nail this Chicken Tikka Masala, having the right tools makes all the difference:

Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan – Essential for getting that charred, smoky flavor on the marinated chicken.
Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan – Perfect for simmering the sauce evenly without scorching.
Sharp Chef’s Knife – For clean, precise cuts of chicken to ensure even cooking.
Mixing Bowls – One for marinating the chicken, another for prepping your sauce ingredients.
Spice Grinder or Mortar & Pestle – If you’re using whole spices, freshly ground ones will elevate the flavor.

These tools aren’t just about convenience; they ensure each element of the dish is cooked to perfection, from the seared chicken to the rich, bubbling sauce.

Ingredients for the Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Breast or Thighs – The star of the dish; thighs add juiciness, while breasts keep it lean.
Greek Yogurt – Used for marinating, tenderizing the chicken and adding tang.
Garlic & Ginger Paste – Builds the aromatic base for both marinade and sauce.
Ground Spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala) – Layers of warmth, color, and complexity.
Tomato Puree – Creates the rich, velvety body of the sauce.
Heavy Cream – Softens the spice punch with luscious creaminess.
Fresh Cilantro – Adds brightness and a fresh herbal finish.
Lemon Juice – Sharpens and balances the flavors.

How To Make the Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine Greek yogurt, garlic & ginger paste, spices, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Coat the chicken thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best).

Step 2: Sear for Smoky Flavor

Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan until very hot. Sear the chicken pieces until they develop a charred exterior but are not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat oil or ghee. Sauté garlic, ginger, and spices until fragrant. Stir in tomato puree and let it simmer until deepened in color.

Step 4: Simmer and Combine

Add the chicken to the sauce along with heavy cream. Simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thick and rich.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with fresh cilantro and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.

Serving and Storing Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala

Serve your Chicken Tikka Masala in a warm dish, garnished generously with cilantro and perhaps a swirl of cream for presentation. Pair with fluffy basmati rice or garlic naan for a complete meal. For storing, cool completely before transferring to an airtight container; refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat gently to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Chicken Tikka Masala?

It’s mildly spiced, but you can adjust heat by adding more chili powder or fresh chilies.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, swap Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt and heavy cream for coconut cream.

What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless thighs offer more juiciness, while breasts are leaner.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely. In fact, flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.

What’s the best way to reheat?

Low and slow on the stovetop to keep the sauce silky.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Savory Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs for a bright, citrusy option. Or try Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli if you’re in the mood for creamy pasta.

For something more comforting, check out my Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup, or spice things up with Spicy Honey Sriracha Chicken with Noodles.

And for a quick air-fried treat, Air Fryer Crispy Honey Sriracha Chicken Bites will hit the spot.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go for extra spice? Did you serve it with naan or rice? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others recreate this iconic dish.

And if you’re hunting for more inspiration, explore my Pinterest LadyPlate board where I share daily recipes and kitchen tips.

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating)
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala is a creamy, mildly spiced curry with tender marinated chicken, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It delivers restaurant-quality flavors right from your kitchen, perfect with naan or steamed basmati rice.

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, garlic & ginger paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

2. Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan until very hot. Sear chicken until charred but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat oil or ghee. Sauté garlic, ginger, and spices until fragrant. Stir in tomato puree and simmer until deep red.

4. Add chicken to the sauce, pour in heavy cream, and stir. Simmer gently until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.

5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.

Notes

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge.

Use full-fat Greek yogurt to keep the chicken moist during cooking.

Adjust chili powder to suit your spice preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Indian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 420
Sugar: 7
Sodium: 680
Fat: 23
Saturated Fat: 11
Unsaturated Fat: 10
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 18
Fiber: 4
Protein: 34
Cholesterol: 115

Keywords: chicken tikka masala, Gordon Ramsay chicken curry, creamy chicken curry