10 Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipes for Flavorful Weeknights

Are you on the hunt for delicious, hassle-free dinners that bring restaurant-worthy flavors to your kitchen without the stress? As a passionate foodie and seasoned home cook, I absolutely live for those “easy prep, bold flavor” meals—especially when it comes to classic favorites like chicken tikka masala. These Easy Chicken Tikka Masala Recipes have been my secret to surviving chaotic weeknights, keeping my family happy (and healthy!) while still savoring all the comfort we crave.

I know how it feels to crave Indian flavors after a long day—ordering takeout sounds tempting, but it’s rarely as healthy or quick as we imagine. That’s why I’ve crafted and refined these recipes: they save time, avoid hard-to-find ingredients, and taste just as good (if not better!) than your favorite curry house. Each dish can fit into busy schedules, appeals to both adults and little ones, and some are even perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re feeding yourself, a family, or prepping for the week, these tried-and-tested recipes will set you up for dinner success.

Pin this post for your next meal plan—your tastebuds (and your schedule) will thank you!

Classic Chicken Tikka Masala

Let’s start with the classic that inspired my entire collection. This classic chicken tikka masala is my cozy-night-in staple, packed with rich tomato flavor and a perfect blend of warming spices. I love how the marinade infuses the chicken with so much depth, even before it hits the creamy, aromatic sauce. Making this dish always takes me back to sharing family dinners at our favorite Indian restaurant and then recreating the experience together at home. The best part? It’s straightforward enough for busy weeknights, but refined enough to impress friends and family. Serve over fluffy basmati rice, top with fresh cilantro, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a special occasion—no reservation required.

Ingredients

• 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 400g tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free option)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish

Preparation Steps

1. Marinate chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper for 30min (or overnight).
2. Heat oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger for 2min.
3. Add chicken with marinade. Cook for 5min, until browned.
4. Add tomato puree. Simmer for 15min.
5. Pour in cream, simmer additional 5min until sauce thickens.
6. Check seasoning, adjust salt/pepper.
7. Garnish with cilantro. Serve with rice or naan.

Preparation Info

• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 25min
• Total Time: 40min
• Serves: 4

Customization & Tips

Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. For extra veggies, add spinach or peas in the last 5min of simmering. Leftovers keep well up to 3 days.

One-Pan Chicken Tikka Masala

If you love minimal cleanup, this one’s for you! My one-pan variation means fewer dishes without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for busy nights when you crave something soulful and don’t want to deal with a mountain of pots and pans. This is a go-to for me during hectic weekdays; I simply toss everything together, letting the oven do most of the work. The aroma that fills the kitchen is irresistible, and the finished dish is consistently a family favorite. It’s affordable, filling, and ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients

• 500g chicken thighs, chopped
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Mix chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, spices, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange onion and marinated chicken in a baking dish.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, bake for 20min.
5. Add tomato sauce and cream, stir, bake for another 10min.
6. Mix before serving, garnish as desired.
7. Enjoy with rice or naan.

Preparation Info

• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 30min
• Total Time: 40min
• Serves: 4

Customization & Tips

Use chicken breast for a leaner option. Add diced bell peppers or peas for more vegetables. Leftovers are great in wraps!

Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala

Let your slow cooker handle dinner while you handle life. This set-it-and-forget-it favorite has saved my busiest days—just a few minutes of prep, and dinner is ready when you are. The chicken turns out so tender, and the flavors deepen as it cooks. Perfect for families and make-ahead lunches.

Ingredients

• 500g boneless chicken breasts, cut into pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk
• Salt, pepper, olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation Steps

1. Place chicken, yogurt, onion, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and spices in slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-7hr or high for 3-4hr.
3. Stir in cream/coconut milk last 20min.
4. Taste, adjust seasoning.
5. Garnish with cilantro before serving.
6. Serve with steamed rice.
7. Store leftovers in fridge up to 4 days.

Preparation Info

• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 6-7hr (low)
• Total Time: 6hr 15min
• Serves: 4

Customization & Tips

Replace chicken with cauliflower for a vegetarian version. Freeze portions for future dinners.

Healthy Chicken Tikka Masala

I love making comfort food healthier without sacrificing flavor. This version lightens things up with Greek yogurt and lean chicken. It’s perfect for those seeking nutritious options with all the flavor and satisfaction of the original. This recipe helped me stay on track with my healthy eating goals while still enjoying takeout-inspired comfort.

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breast, chopped
• 1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (400g)
• 1/2 cup light cream or coconut milk
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper

Preparation Steps

1. Marinate chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, spices.
2. Heat oil, sauté onion and garlic 2min.
3. Add chicken, cook 5min.
4. Add tomatoes, simmer 15min.
5. Stir in cream, simmer 5min.
6. Adjust seasoning, serve hot.
7. Pair with quinoa or brown rice.

Preparation Info

• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 25min
• Total Time: 40min
• Serves: 4

Customization & Tips

Use Greek yogurt for extra protein. Add spinach for more greens. Refrigerate for healthy lunches.

Vegetarian Chickpea Tikka Masala

As a lifelong veggie lover, this dish is my go-to when I want something hearty, meat-free, and just as satisfying. Chickpeas are the hero here, soaking up all those wonderful spices. It’s a dinner that delights vegetarians and meat-eaters alike—especially on “Meatless Mondays.”

Ingredients

• 2 cans chickpeas (400g each), drained
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 can tomato sauce (400g)
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper
• Fresh cilantro

Preparation Steps

1. Sauté onion, garlic, ginger in olive oil 3min.
2. Stir in spices, cook 1min.
3. Add chickpeas, tomato sauce, simmer 15min.
4. Add coconut milk, simmer 5min.
5. Season, garnish with cilantro.
6. Enjoy with rice or naan.
7. Save leftovers for weekday lunches.

Preparation Info

• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 25min
• Total Time: 35min
• Serves: 4

Customization & Tips

Substitute chickpeas with lentils. Add spinach or peas for color and nutrition.

Chicken Tikka Masala Meal Prep Bowls

If weekly meal prep is your thing, you’ll adore these bowls. They’re my lifesaver during back-to-back workweeks, helping me stay fueled (and happy) without resorting to boring meals. Prep on Sunday and reap the benefits all week.

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 cup steamed broccoli
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup light cream or coconut milk
• Salt, pepper, olive oil

Preparation Steps

1. Mix chicken with yogurt and spices, marinate 15min.
2. Sauté chicken in oil 5min, add tomato sauce, simmer 10min.
3. Add cream or coconut milk, cook 5min.
4. Divide rice, broccoli, and chicken into four meal prep containers.
5. Cool before sealing and refrigerating.
6. Heat as needed for easy lunches.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Preparation Info

• Prep Time: 20min
• Cook Time: 20min
• Total Time: 40min
• Serves: 4 bowls

Customization & Tips

Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. Add roasted veggies for variety.

Sheet Pan Chicken Tikka Masala

Not much beats a sheet pan meal on a busy night. This version is all about hands-off magic: the chicken and veggies roast together, locking in flavor, and cleanup is a breeze. Perfect for feeding a crowd or just enjoying fuss-free family dinners with all the Indian flavors you love.

Ingredients

• 500g chicken thighs, cubed
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Mix chicken with yogurt, spices, salt, pepper.
3. Spread chicken, bell pepper, onion, zucchini on a sheet pan.
4. Drizzle with oil, bake 20min.
5. Pour tomato puree and cream over ingredients, toss.
6. Bake another 10min.
7. Serve hot, with cilantro garnish.

Preparation Info

• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 30min
• Total Time: 45min
• Serves: 4

Customization & Tips

Swap vegetables as desired. Try cauliflower or sweet potato for variation.

Dairy-Free Chicken Tikka Masala

For anyone avoiding dairy, this recipe delivers all the rich, creamy flavor with none of the dairy. Using coconut milk and a little extra spice, this version brings big comfort, and it’s a hit with friends who have food sensitivities. This recipe became a staple after my husband went dairy-free—now, it’s a regular request!

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup coconut yogurt (unsweetened)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper

Preparation Steps

1. Marinate chicken with coconut yogurt, lemon, spices.
2. Sauté onion and garlic 2min.
3. Add chicken, brown 5min.
4. Add tomato puree, simmer 10min.
5. Stir in coconut milk, cook 5min.
6. Season to taste, garnish if desired.
7. Serve over rice.

Preparation Info

• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 20min
• Total Time: 35min
• Serves: 4

Customization & Tips

Add spinach, green beans, or kale for extra greens. Make ahead for easy weeknight meals.

Family-Friendly Chicken Tikka Masala

This version is mild, accessible, and perfect for all ages. My kids literally lick their plates and ask for seconds, and I love that I can sneak in extra veggies. It’s a dinner table winner, sure to unite even picky eaters.

Ingredients

• 500g boneless chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup low-fat plain yogurt
• 2 tsp mild curry powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 onion, grated
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup light cream
• 1 cup peas and carrots (mixed, frozen)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper

Preparation Steps

1. Marinate chicken in yogurt and spices.
2. Sauté onion in oil 2min, add chicken.
3. Cook chicken 5min, add tomato sauce and cream.
4. Bring to simmer, add peas and carrots.
5. Cook 10min until chicken is cooked through.
6. Adjust seasoning, serve with rice.
7. Great for meal prep.

Preparation Info

• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 20min
• Total Time: 30min
• Serves: 4

Customization & Tips

Lower spice for young kids or add chili for adults. Toss in spinach for an extra veggie boost.

Spicy Chicken Tikka Masala

Turn up the heat for an extra kick! This recipe was born from my love of spicy takeout and wanting to master it at home. It brings the warmth and zest you crave—the perfect pick-me-up for spice lovers and chilly evenings.

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp hot paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper

Preparation Steps

1. Marinate chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, spices.
2. Sauté onion, garlic in oil 2min.
3. Cook chicken 5min.
4. Add tomato puree, simmer 10min.
5. Stir in cream, simmer 5min.
6. Adjust spice level if needed.
7. Top with cilantro. Serve with rice.

Preparation Info

• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 20min
• Total Time: 30min
• Serves: 4

Customization & Tips

Use more or less cayenne for heat preference. Cool it down with a side of raita.