Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup (240ml) plain yogurt (Greek yogurt works well)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30ml)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or 1 tbsp minced ginger + 1 tbsp minced garlic) (15ml)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (5ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala (5ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (2.5ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste) (2.5ml)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (5ml)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30ml)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or 1 tbsp minced ginger + 1 tbsp minced garlic) (15ml)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (5ml)
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander (5ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (2.5ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste) (2.5ml)
  • 1 (28 ounce / 794g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (double cream for extra indulgence!)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth (stock)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (15ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala (5ml)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Add chicken, toss to coat thoroughly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours).
  2. Grill or pan-fry the marinated chicken in batches until cooked through and lightly charred (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Set aside.
  3. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened and translucent. Add ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, sugar, and salt to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Optional: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and garam masala. Return the cooked chicken to the sauce.
  7. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.