Chicken Masala

Creamy, fragrant and full of warmth, this chicken masala fills the whole kitchen with the smell of toasted spices. Tender pieces of chicken simmer in a rich tomato and cream sauce with garam masala, cumin and a gentle kick of heat. Comforting, satisfying and easy enough for any weeknight dinner.
What you'll need.
For the chicken
- 3 chicken fillets, cut into cubes
- 1 piece of ginger, grated
- 3 garlic cloves
- Salt and hot paprika, to taste
- Cumin and garam masala, to taste
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the sauce
- Oil for frying
- 2 red onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Cumin and turmeric, to taste
- Garam masala, to taste
- 50 ml cream
How to make it.
- Mix the chicken with grated ginger, garlic, salt, hot paprika, cumin, garam masala, sour cream and olive oil, and let it marinate briefly.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken until golden, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, fry the chopped red onions with the garlic until soft.
- Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, turmeric and garam masala and cook for a minute.
- Return the chicken, pour in the cream, cover and cook gently for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot with rice or warm flatbread.
My tips.
Toasting the spices for a minute deepens the flavour. For a milder dish, ease back on the hot paprika; for extra richness, stir in a small knob of butter at the end.
Good to know.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day. Reheat gently and add a splash of cream.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Thighs work beautifully and stay extra juicy.
What should I serve with it?
Rice, naan or flatbread are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Prep 15 min · Cook 35 min · Total 50 min · Serves 4
Nutrition.
~380 kcal · Protein 35 g · Fat 20 g · Carbs 12 g (approximate, calculated automatically)
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