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Flavorful Turkey Tikka Masala Recipe Perfect for Dinner

turkey tikka masala - featured image

Tender chunks of turkey simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce—this turkey tikka masala recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family nights or hosting guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb turkey breast, cubed
  • 1 cup plain yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 2 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp chili powder (adjust based on your spice preference)
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tbsp ginger paste
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or ghee for a richer flavor)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger paste
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 14 oz can of crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream (substitute coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
  • 12 green chilies, finely chopped, for extra heat (optional)
  • Naan or steamed basmati rice for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the turkey: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, ginger paste, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well, then add the turkey cubes, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor).
  2. Prepare the sauce base: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and ginger paste, cooking until fragrant.
  3. Add the spices: Sprinkle in cumin, coriander, paprika, and garam masala. Stir well to toast the spices for 1-2 minutes, releasing their aroma.
  4. Add the tomatoes: Pour in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use a blender or food processor to puree it at this stage.
  5. Cook the turkey: In a separate pan, cook the marinated turkey on medium-high heat until fully cooked and slightly browned (about 8-10 minutes). Add the cooked turkey to the sauce.
  6. Finish with cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.

Notes

[‘Let the turkey marinate for at least 30 minutes to ensure tender meat and deep flavor.’, ‘Toast your spices in oil before adding liquid to unlock their full potential.’, ‘Adjust the chili powder and green chilies based on your spice tolerance.’, ‘Use fresh ginger and garlic for better flavor.’, ‘Don’t overcook the turkey to avoid dryness.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Turkey Tikka Masala, Indian Cuisine, Comfort Food, Healthy Dinner, Easy Recipe