The origins of Chicken Masala trace back to traditional Indian home kitchens, where spice blends were tailored to local tastes. While the exact date is hard to pinpoint, it gained popularity across India during the post-independence era, especially with the rise of restaurant-style curries in the 1960s and 70s. Over time, the dish evolved and adapted to regional styles, becoming a staple in North and South Indian households — and eventually a global favorite
A great Chicken Masala starts with the right ingredients. From the spices to the chicken cut, each component plays a big role in making the dish flavourful and rich.
Tomato vs Onion-Based Gravies
Chicken Masala can be made with different base gravies, depending on the style and region:
- Tomato-based gravy: Slightly tangy, vibrant in color, and works excellent with North Indian-style recipes.
- Onion-based gravy: Thicker, darker, and deeper in flavor—ideal for South Indian or Dhaba-style Chicken Masala.
Some recipes use both to balance sweetness, acidity, and texture.
Preparation Process: How to Make Chicken Masala
Cooking Chicken Masala at home is easier than it looks — and when done right, it tastes just like your favorite Indian restaurant. Here’s a simple breakdown of how to do it traditionally, with some modern tips, too.
Step-by-Step Traditional Chicken Masala Recipe
- Marinate the Chicken Combine the Chicken, yogurt, red chilli powder, turmeric, salt, and a little amount of garam masala in a bowl. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
- Saute the Base Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Cook till golden brown after adding the chopped onions. Next, add the green chilies, ginger, and garlic.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until soft. Add ground spices — cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and more chili if you like it spicy.
- Cook the Chicken cook the marinated Chicken until it is sealed and slightly browned.
- Simmer and Finish Cover, add water (or coconut milk or cream, depending on your preference), and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the Chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
Garnish and Serve Finish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon. Serve hot with rice or naan.
Marinade Techniques for Maximum Flavour
Marination isn’t just for tender meat — it’s where the flavor begins. Use:
- Yogurt to tenderize
- Salt & Lemon juice to break down fibers
- Spices like turmeric, chili, and garam masala infuse flavor
Advice: For rich flavor, marinate the Chicken for at least 30 minutes, but 4-6 hours is best.
Frying vs Slow Cooking: Which is Better?
- Frying (or sauteing in a pan) gives you a quicker result with slightly crispy edges and a thicker, more intense gravy. Perfect for weeknights.
- Slow cooking makes the Chicken more tender and juicy by allowing it to absorb the spices deeply. Great for special meals or batch cooking.
Both methods work — choose based on your schedule and texture preference.
Chicken Masala vs Chicken Curry: What’s the Difference?
Though often used interchangeably, Chicken Masala and Chicken Curry have subtle differences:
- Chicken Masala tends to be thicker, more intensely spiced, and usually has less liquid.
- Chicken Curry can be more broth-based and may use fewer spices or milder blends depending on the region.
In short, Chicken Masala focuses more on the dry or semi-gravy spiced coating, while Chicken Curry leans into saucy comfort.
Low-Fat or Low-Calorie Chicken Masala
Looking to lighten things up without losing flavor?
- Skip the cream – Use low-fat yogurt or a splash of milk instead
- Use lean cuts – Boneless, skinless chicken breast is your best friend here
- Cut the oil – Use just 1–2 tsp of oil or try air-frying the onions before adding them to the curry
This version keeps the spices and aroma intact while reducing the heaviness. Serve with brown rice or a small portion of chapati.
Side Dishes & Pairings for Chicken Masala
A great Chicken Masala deserves equally amazing sides. Whether indulging yourself or organizing a dinner party, the right accompaniments take this dish to the next level. Here’s what to serve it with:
🫓 Best Indian Breads
Soft, warm, and perfect for scooping up that rich masala gravy.
- Naan: A classic! Slightly chewy, often brushed with butter or garlic — naan is perfect for soaking up every drop of sauce.
- Roti (Chapati): A healthier, whole wheat option. Light and soft, it is ideal if you want a less rich pairing.
- Paratha: Flaky and indulgent. Try plain, stuffed, or layered versions for a slightly crisp and buttery bite.
🍚 Rice Options
Let the Chicken Masala shine with one of these fragrant rice bases:
- Jeera Rice: Lightly flavored with cumin seeds and ghee — simple but super flavourful.
- Plain Basmati: Fluffy, aromatic, and the most traditional match. It lets the masala take center stage.
- Vegetable Pulao: Adds a bit of color and veggie goodness. Mild in flavor but beautiful with a spicy curry.
🥒 Cooling Sides
Balance the heat with refreshing, tangy, or crunchy sides:
- Raita: Yogurt mixed with cucumber, and mint – this cools your palate and complements the spices.
- Fresh Salad: Sliced onions, cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon wedges — crisp and hydrating.
Indian Pickles: Tangy and spicy — a tiny spoonful adds a punch of flavor that pairs well with the curry’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken can turn tough if cooked too long. Once it’s browned, simmer gently until cooked through.
- Not balancing spices: Start with small amounts and adjust to taste. Too much garam masala or chili can overwhelm the dish.
- Skipping the tempering: Always toast whole spices (like cumin seeds) at the beginning to release their natural oils and enhance flavor.
- Cooking on high heat: Keep the heat moderate. Too high, and the spices can burn; too low, and the flavors won’t develop fully.
Not allowing the flavors to blend: Let the curry simmer for a while after adding the Chicken, so the spices meld together and create a rich, cohesive sauce.
Love to eat Chicken Masala? Try It Fresh at Tamasha Playa Blanca!
If reading about Chicken Masala has your mouth watering, it’s time to taste the real deal. At Tamasha Playa Blanca, our chefs craft an authentic Chicken Masala using time-honored Indian spices and traditional techniques that bring the dish to life.
From the very first bite, our Chicken Masala draws you in — rich, comforting, and layered with flavor. The spices don’t just hit you; they unfold slowly, warming the senses with every mouthful. The aroma fills the air, the gravy clings just right to tender pieces of Chicken, and suddenly, you’re not just eating — you’re experiencing something special.
Whether it’s your first taste of Indian food or a beloved favorite, this dish lingers — not just on the palate but in your memory.
📍 Find us in the heart of Lanzarote — your Indian food journey starts at Tamasha Playa Blanca. Join us for a taste of tradition!
