CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA

Here's a classic **Chicken Tikka Masala** recipe:

### Ingredients:
#### For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500g boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- Salt to taste

#### For the Masala Sauce:
- 2 tbsp oil or butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional)
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a lighter option)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, ginger, and spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder).
2. Add the chicken pieces, coat them well, cover, and marinate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight in the fridge).

#### Step 2: Cook the Chicken
1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with foil or grease it lightly.
2. Place the marinated chicken pieces on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until they're just cooked through. Alternatively, you can grill or pan-fry them for added flavor.

#### Step 3: Prepare the Masala Sauce
1. Heat oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden and soft (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook the spices for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

#### Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
1. Stir the cooked chicken pieces into the sauce.
2. Add the cream (or coconut milk) and let everything simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

#### Step 5: Serve
1. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
2. Serve with basmati rice or naan bread.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Tikka Masala!