Chicken Tikka Masala – My Favorite Saturday Night Fakeaway

There’s just something magical about curling up with a cozy bowl of Chicken Tikka Masala on a Saturday night. It’s creamy, mildly spicy, packed with flavor, and super comforting. The best part? You can make it right at home in under 30 minutes! This version uses a meal kit from @musclefooduk’s Do The Unthinkable box, which I absolutely love because it’s simple, fast, and full of goodness even sneaks in 3 of your 5-a-day veggies. Whether you’re new to cooking or just want an easy fakeaway, this dish has you covered.

Method

Heat It Up

First, place a non-stick frying pan on the stove and set the heat to medium. Add ½ tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and let it warm up for a few seconds. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking and gives it a nice golden color when cooked.

Cook the Chicken

Once the oil is hot, add your chopped chicken breast pieces into the pan. Spread them out so they cook evenly. Let the chicken cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the chicken to be fully cooked white and firm on the inside, with a light golden color on the outside. This step is super important because it builds the base flavor and ensures your chicken is tender, not dry.

Add Your Veggies

Next, toss in the sliced red pepper, onion, and diced tomato. Stir everything together so the veggies start to soften and soak up those tasty chicken juices. Cook this mixture for another 4 to 6 minutes. The onion should turn slightly translucent, the pepper should be tender but still a bit crisp, and the tomato should blend in to make the base more saucy. Don’t rush this part it helps build that rich, hearty flavor.

Sauce Time

Now it’s time for the star of the dish your tikka masala sauce. Pour the whole packet over the chicken and veggies. Use your spoon or spatula to stir the sauce through, making sure everything is evenly coated. Let it simmer on low to medium heat for a few minutes, just until everything is hot and the sauce thickens slightly. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Rice Ready

While the curry simmers, get your microwaveable rice ready. Follow the instructions on the packet usually it only takes about 2 minutes. Use a microwave-safe dish if the rice needs to be removed from the original packet. Fluff it up with a fork once it’s done so it’s light and ready for serving.

Serve & Enjoy

Finally, spoon a generous portion of the warm rice into your bowl or plate. Top it with the creamy tikka masala chicken and veg mixture. If you’re feeling fancy, add your favorite garnish like fresh coriander or a little yogurt swirl. Then grab your fork or spoon and enjoy every comforting bite.

Necessary Tools

• Non-stick frying pan
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Microwave
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoon

Serving Suggestions

• Add a sprinkle of fresh coriander on top for a little extra flavor.
• Serve with a side of naan or a small cucumber raita for a fresh twist.
• Want a dinner party vibe? Plate it in a bowl and top with a swirl of yogurt.

Fun Fact

Did you know Chicken Tikka Masala is often said to have been invented in the UK, not India? Some people call it “Britain’s true national dish”! It’s the perfect mix of Indian spices and creamy tomato goodness yum!

Conclusion 

Honestly, this Chicken Tikka Masala hits the spot every single time. It’s quick, easy, packed with protein, and sneaks in veggies without any fuss. Whether you’re eating solo or sharing with someone, it feels like a special meal without the extra work. So next time you’re craving a takeaway, try this fakeaway instead you won’t regret it!