Sharwoods Tikka Masala Recipe: Restaurant Style Spice in Your Kitchen

I’ve always believed great flavors start with a solid foundation, and this dish proves it. The secret lies in letting the chicken marinate in yogurt and spices before hitting the grill.

Once charred and smoky, the tender pieces get smothered in Sharwoods tikka masala sauce, which brings that restaurant-quality depth without the fuss. It’s the kind of shortcut that still feels like you’ve put in the work.

What you end up with is juicy, spice-crusted chicken swimming in a rich, aromatic sauce. Serve it with basmati rice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for the full experience.

This is comfort food with a kick, and it’s ready in under an hour. No tandoor required.

Ingredients for Sharwoods Tikka Masala

Yogurt-marinated chicken meets smoky spices and a rich, aromatic sauce for big flavor.

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The chicken thighs are what make this dish tender and juicy—boneless, skinless is key for even cooking. I always grab mine from Costco for bulk savings, but any grocery store will do. The yogurt marinade needs to be full-fat for maximum tenderness (Greek yogurt works too, but thin it slightly). For the spices, Penzeys or a local Indian market will have the freshest garam masala and Kashmiri chili powder.

No Kashmiri chili? Regular paprika plus a pinch of cayenne gets you close. Short on time? Skip the marinade and just coat the chicken in spices—still tasty. The Sharwoods sauce is non-negotiable for that restaurant depth, but Patak’s works in a pinch. Heavy cream makes the sauce luxurious, but coconut milk (full-fat) is a great dairy-free swap.

Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead—flavor only gets better. Cooked dish keeps 3-4 days in the fridge, freezes for 3 months (the sauce separates slightly but stirs back together). Always garnish with fresh cilantro right before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Tikka Masala

Here’s my foolproof method for creating this flavorful dish at home with ease.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

In a large bowl, combine the 1.5 lb Boneless Chicken Thighs with 1 cup Plain Yogurt, 2 tbsp Lemon Juice, 4 cloves Garlic Cloves (minced), 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger, 1 tsp Garam Masala, 1 tsp Ground Cumin, 1 tsp Ground Coriander, 0.5 tsp Turmeric, 1 tsp Kashmiri Red Chili Powder, and 1 tsp Salt.

Mix well to ensure the chicken is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor penetration. I’ve found this marinating time makes the chicken incredibly tender and infused with spice.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Until Golden and Tender

Preheat your oven to 425°F or heat a grill to medium-high. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers or place pieces on a greased baking sheet.

Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The edges should look slightly charred—that’s the sign of perfect tikka flavor. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Masala Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, pour the 1 jar Sharwoods Tikka Masala Sauce. Stir in the remaining 1 tsp Garam Masala and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, coating each piece thoroughly. For a richer finish, stir in 0.5 cup Heavy Cream and let it simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken absorbs the flavors.

Step 4: Serve with Basmati Rice and Garnish

While the chicken finishes cooking, prepare the 1.5 cups Basmati Rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and keep warm.

Transfer the tikka masala to a serving dish, spooning extra sauce over the top. Garnish with 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve hot with the basmati rice, ensuring every bite is packed with rich, aromatic flavor.

Health Benefits of This sharwoods tikka masala

Protein Powerhouse

This dish delivers a solid 30 grams of protein per serving from the chicken thighs, helping build and repair muscles. The yogurt marinade adds a protein boost too, making it a satisfying meal that keeps you full for hours. I always feel energized after eating this. 💪

Spice with Benefits

Turmeric in the marinade contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The garlic and ginger also bring immune-supporting benefits, making this dish as nourishing as it is delicious.

Healthy Fats

The full-fat yogurt provides probiotics for gut health, while the chicken offers healthy fats that support brain function. Even the Sharwoods sauce uses quality oils that contribute to a balanced meal.

Rich in Vitamins

You’ll get a dose of vitamin C from the lemon juice and vitamin A from the spices. The cilantro garnish adds vitamin K, which supports bone health. It’s a flavorful way to pack in nutrients.

Low-Carb Option

Skip the rice and serve this over cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. The chicken and sauce are naturally low in carbs, making it a great choice for those watching their intake. Honestly, it tastes just as good.

Antioxidant Boost

The spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder are packed with antioxidants. These compounds help fight oxidative stress in the body. This dish proves that comfort food can also be a health powerhouse. ✨

Frequently Asked Questions