Chicken Tikka Masala Lazeez

Ingredients:

For Chicken Tikka:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For Masala:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Steps:

Chicken Tikka:

1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the chicken pieces in the yogurt mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Heat oil in a skillet and cook the marinated chicken until fully cooked and slightly charred.

Masala: 4. In a separate pan, heat oil and sauté chopped onions until golden brown.

1. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
2. Stir in tomato puree, tomato paste, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, and chili powder. Cook until the oil separates.
3. Pour in heavy cream and simmer until the masala thickens.
4. Add the cooked chicken tikka pieces to the masala, stirring gently to coat them evenly. Simmer for a few minutes.
5. Adjust salt and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve Chicken Tikka Masala Lazeez over rice or with naan for a delightful dining experience.