Tikka Masala (Butter Chicken Kit)
"A rich, creamy tikka masala with yogurt-marinated chicken and warm spices — the Costco deli kit runs $16.99 for a tray, but homemade lets you control the spice level and it actually tastes like someone who cares made it."
Costco Copycat — This is a homemade version of the Costco Deli & Prepared Foods item. See it in store →
The Game Plan
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Combine yogurt, 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon cumin, turmeric, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight — longer is better).
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Heat coconut oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Shake excess marinade off the chicken and sear in batches, about 3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Don't crowd the pan. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook 5-6 minutes until softened and turning golden. Add garlic and ginger, stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add remaining garam masala, cumin, paprika, cayenne, and tomato paste. Stir for 30 seconds until the spices bloom and the paste darkens slightly.
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Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
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Use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until mostly smooth (or leave it chunky if that's your thing). Stir in heavy cream.
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Return chicken to the sauce and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is rich and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and cayenne.
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Cook basmati rice according to package directions. Serve tikka masala over rice with fresh cilantro on top.
