Save A fusion dish that combines the bold, aromatic flavors of classic chicken tikka masala with tender pasta in a rich, creamy sauce.
This dish quickly became a family favorite after I first made it for a cozy weeknight dinner.
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
- Marinate Chicken:
- Combine all marinade ingredients with chicken in a bowl. Mix well cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for best flavor)
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions Drain and set aside
- Cook Chicken:
- 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
- Sauté Onion:
- Melt butter over medium heat Add onion and sauté for 4 5 minutes until soft and golden
- Add Aromatics:
- Add garlic and ginger cook for 1 minute Stir in cumin paprika coriander and chili powder cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
- Simmer Sauce:
- Add crushed tomatoes sugar and a pinch of salt Simmer for 8 10 minutes stirring occasionally until thickened
- Finish Sauce:
- Reduce heat to low Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth mixing well Return cooked chicken to sauce and simmer for 3 minutes
- Combine Pasta:
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat in sauce Warm through for 2 3 minutes
- Season and Serve:
- Adjust seasoning if needed Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving
Save Sharing this meal with my family always brings us closer especially during busy weeknights.
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 a perfect blend of spices and comfort Pasta lovers will enjoy this rich flavorful dish every time
Kitchen Guide
- → How is the chicken marinated?
The chicken is combined with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, and salt, then refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to absorb the spices fully.
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or rigatoni pasta are ideal as their tubular shapes hold the creamy sauce well, providing a balanced bite with each forkful.
- → Can the spice level be adjusted?
Yes, chili powder is optional and can be varied to taste, allowing control over the dish's heat intensity without compromising flavor.
- → What adds richness to the sauce?
Heavy cream combined with butter enhances the sauce’s creaminess, while crushed tomatoes offer a tangy depth, creating a smooth, luscious texture.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives?
Substituting chicken with paneer or tofu provides a satisfying vegetarian option that complements the spiced creamy sauce beautifully.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top brightens the flavors and adds a fresh herbaceous note, enhancing the overall presentation and taste.