Budget-Friendly Chicken Tikka Masala (Original video)

Ingredients:

• 240 grams full-fat yogurt
• 6 grams kosher salt
• 11 grams garam masala
• 3 grams paprika
• 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2-inch knob of fresh ginger, grated
• 900 grams boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Vegetable oil
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 3 grams cayenne powder
• 9 grams granulated sugar
• 425 grams crushed tomatoes
• 240 milliliters heavy whipping cream
• Salt to taste
• Optional: ground cumin (if available)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, salt, garam masala, paprika, garlic, and ginger. Mix thoroughly.
2. Add chicken thighs to the mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Let it marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Set aside.
4. In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Saute onion, ginger, and garlic until softened. Season lightly with salt.
5. Add paprika, cayenne powder, garam masala, and sugar. Saute until fragrant.
6. Stir in crushed tomatoes and let it reduce for 5 minutes. Optionally, blend the mixture until smooth.
7. Return the mixture to the pan, add the seared chicken, and simmer for 10 minutes.
8. Stir in heavy whipping cream and simmer for an additional 7-8 minutes until thickened.
9. Season with salt to taste. Serve with steamed rice and garnish with cilantro if desired.