Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe: How to Make it on a Budget

Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe: If you’re in the mood for the rich, fragrant flavours of Indian food but don’t want to blow your budget, an inexpensive masala recipe called tikka is the ideal solution. The favourite dish, renowned for its rich tomato-based sauce and tender chicken that has been marinated, can be prepared at home with inexpensive ingredients that won’t compromise on taste. With the appropriate spices and a few affordable ingredients, you can make this popular restaurant dish at home in your kitchen.

Making low-cost masala tikka at home is not only easy but also economical. Instead of spending a fortune on food delivery or dining out, it is possible to enjoy this tasty dish with basic pantry staples, such as yoghurtyoghurt, canned tomatoes, and ground spices. It’s an excellent way to introduce the warmth of Indian spices to your kitchen without paying the high price.

With only a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, this inexpensive masala recipe for tikka will satisfy your craving for comfort food and save you both time and money. Whether you’re a professional chef or just starting, this recipe offers the perfect opportunity to experience the authentic taste of Indian food on a budget.

What is Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe?

What is the first thought that pops into your mind whenever you think of the word “tikka masala”? Delicious, creamy, tasty, and so satisfying! If you consider making it at home, the thought of costly ingredients could make you think twice. It is possible to ask, “Can I make it just as delicious without splurging on costly spices and chicken?”

The positive news is that you can! This inexpensive masala recipe for tikka offers all the distinctive flavour of this famous food to the table, without the pricey tag. It’s all about making use of what’s in your pantry, including yoghurt, canned tomatoes, and some simple spices, to create a rich, creamy sauce that coats tender chicken pieces perfectly.

If you’re the type of person who believes the best way to a person’s heart is through their stomach, this recipe is a great choice. It’s not necessary to shell out an arm and a leg on takeout to recreate this dish that’s restaurant-quality at home. Try it and you’ll never think of masala tikka in the same way ever again!

Why You’ll Love This Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe

Main Highlights

The inexpensive masala recipe for tikka is focused on the flavour. It’s a deliciously tender chicken paired with a flavorful tomato sauce that’s well-balanced by a variety of spices, including coriander, cumin, and garam masala. Every bite is a swell of flavour that leaves you craving more. The greatest part? It’s simple to make and doesn’t require expensive ingredients.

Cost-Saving Benefits

Making masala tikka at home is a fantastic way to save money, as it’s more cost-effective than purchasing it already prepared. If you cook the dish yourself using only simple pantry ingredients, you don’t have to pay for additional restaurant costs or delivery charges. Additionally, homemade tikka masala is much more filling, meaning you’ll get more bang for your money!

Flavorful Toppings and Customizations

Tikka masala can be a delicious and versatile meal. It is easy to customise it to your liking. If you prefer your food to be extra creamy, add some yoghurt or a sprinkle of heavy cream. Do you want to make it more smoky? You can add some chilli powder or freshly cut green chillies. You can garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavour and colour.

How to Make Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe

Quick Overview

This recipe is straightforward, but it packs a flavour punch. You don’t need to be an experienced cook to create this dish. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a dish that rivals your favourite takeout.

Key Ingredients

Ingredient List

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 cup plain yoghurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder (adjust to taste)

Visual Ingredients Image

[Insert high-quality image showcasing the ingredients: chicken, tomatoes, onions, yoghurt, and spices]

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized cubes—season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a bit of chilli powder for extra heat. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions, Garlic, and Ginger

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent. Add the garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute, allowing the fragrant aromas to fill your kitchen.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chilli powder. Let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant, which will help release all their essential oils.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the diced tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally, and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes break down and blend with the spices to create a rich, thick sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add your chicken to the pan and stir to coat it with the sauce. Cook for 7-10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Add Yoghurt

Lower the heat and stir in the yoghurt, creating a creamy texture. Let the dish simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or spices as needed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Serve the tikka masala over steamed rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

What to Serve With Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe

Tikka masala pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its rich and spicy flavours. Here are some great ideas:

A Fresh Salad: A simple cucumber and tomato salad will balance the spiciness.

Steamed Basmati Rice: The soft, fluffy rice will absorb the sauce beautifully, complementing the dish perfectly.

Naan Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Raita: A yoghurt-based side dish to cool down the heat.

Top Tips for Perfecting a Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe

Ingredient Substitutions

• Chicken: You can substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Yoghurt: If you don’t have plain yoghurt, coconut milk can be an excellent alternative for a dairy-free option.

Timing Adjustments

For extra-tender chicken, marinate the chicken in yoghurt and spices for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will enhance the flavour and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not adjusting the spice level: Start with a small amount of chilli powder and change based on your preference.

Overcooking the chicken: Be sure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink inside.

Storing and Reheating Tips

How to Store

Store your leftover tikka masala in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It will taste even better the next day as the flavours have had time to meld together.

How to Reheat

To reheat, warm the dish in a pan over medium heat until heated through. You can add a splash of water or cream if it thickens too much in the fridge.

Health Benefits of Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe

Nutritional Value Table

Why These Ingredients Are Good for You

Chicken provides lean protein that helps build and repair muscles. Yoghurt adds a dose of calcium for strong bones, and tomatoes are rich in antioxidants that support heart health.

Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe From DishBloom!

Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe

This cheap tikka masala recipe offers the same rich, creamy flavors as the restaurant version but at a fraction of the cost. With simple ingredients like chicken, tomatoes, and yogurt, you can create a flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. This budget-friendly recipe doesn’t sacrifice taste, and it’s easy to customize to your spice level preference. Whether you enjoy it mild or spicy, this tikka masala is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large pan or skillet
• Chopping board and knife
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• A bowl for marinating (optional)
• Serving dishes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs boneless, skinless
• 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger grated
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro optional for garnish

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and chili powder. Set aside.
• Sauté the Onions, Garlic, and Ginger: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they soften. Then add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.
• Add the Spices: Stir in the cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes to release their fragrance.
• Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the pan, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cook for 7-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
• Add Yogurt: Lower the heat and stir in the yogurt. Let the dish simmer for another 5 minutes, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
• Garnish and Serve: Serve the tikka masala over rice or with naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.
  

Notes

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can swap chicken for tofu or paneer for a vegetarian version.
• Adjust Spice Level: Add more chili powder or fresh green chilies to make the dish spicier.
• Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy sauce, add more yogurt or a splash of heavy cream.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or cream to bring back the richness.
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Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this article on recipes that don’t require breaking the bank to enjoy Indian cuisine at home. Peppered with culinary intricacies, Indian flavours grace the global culinary stage. Give this easy and delicious dish a try, and we are sure you will appreciate the burst of flavours.
As always, we appreciate your thoughts. Please let us know in the comments if you have ever attempted to cook tikka masala and what your experience was like!

Share Your Twist on the Cheap Tikka Masala Recipe!

We’d love to hear how you make this cheap tikka masala recipe your own! Whether you’ve added a personal touch with extra spices, swapped ingredients, or created a unique version, sharing your twist makes this recipe even more fun and exciting!

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Cheese Lover’s Twist: Add some paneer cubes or shredded cheese to your tikka masala for a cheesy twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Try swapping the chicken for tofu or using a combination of mixed vegetables, such as bell peppers, cauliflower, and peas, for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add some extra fresh chillies or a dash of hot sauce to really spice things up!
• Coconut Creamy Twist: For an extra creamy texture, substitute coconut milk or coconut cream for the yoghurt.

How to Share:

• Comment below: Tell us what unique twist you’ve added to the recipe!
• Social Media: Tag us using #CheapTikkaMasalaTwist and share a photo of your delicious creation.

Let’s inspire each other to make this dish even better! 🍽️

References :

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Cheap Chicken Noodle Casserole

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