Romantic V-Day Dinners from Around the World

5/10 Previous Next

© nelea33/Shutterstock

India: Chicken Tika Masala

This iconic Indian dish features tender, marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce infused with garam masala, ginger, and garlic. With its velvety texture and bold flavors, Chicken Tikka Masala is a comforting yet sophisticated meal, perfect for a cozy, candlelit Valentine’s dinner. The aromatic spices, rich sauce, and tender chicken make this dish deeply satisfying. It’s perfect for sharing, especially when paired with warm naan or fragrant basmati rice.

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter or ghee
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup tomato purée (or canned crushed tomatoes)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices. Add chicken, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 30 min. (or overnight for deeper flavor).
2. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 3-4 min. per side, until lightly charred and cooked through. Set aside.
3. In the same pan, melt butter or ghee, then sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Add spices and stir for 1 min.
4. Add tomato purée and let cook for 5 min., then stir in cream and cooked chicken. Simmer for another 5 min., stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan.