Ingredients for Chicken Tikka:

• 500 grams (1 lb) boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• Salt to taste
• Skewers for grilling (if using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling)

Ingredients for Masala Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 can (400 grams) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions for Chicken Tikka:

1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well, ensuring that each piece is coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If using bamboo skewers, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers.
4. Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a slightly charred exterior. If using the oven, place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and cook for about 15-20 minutes at 200°C (400°F), or until cooked through.

Instructions for Masala Sauce:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and cook for another minute.
4. In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder. Add this spice mixture to the pan and cook for a minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt.
7. Add the cooked chicken tikka pieces to the masala sauce and simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Serve the Chicken Tikka Masala with steamed rice or naan bread. It’s a delightful and richly flavored Indian dish that is sure to impress! Enjoy!