Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala for Easy Weeknight Wins

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s an undeniable comfort that comes from a bowl of warm Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala, especially after a long day. The rich aroma of coconut mingles with the spices, instantly transforming your kitchen into a cozy retreat. I discovered this super simple version while searching for a weeknight dinner that wouldn t sacrifice flavor for speed. With a creamy sauce that boasts fresh ingredients and pantry staples, this Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala is a healthier alternative to your favorite takeout.

Picture tender marinated chicken simmered to perfection, enveloped in a vibrant sauce that balances sweetness and spice. What I love most about this dish is how it scales easily perfect for entertaining or simply to enjoy as leftovers the next day. Whether served over fluffy rice or with warm naan for scooping, it s bound to become a comforting staple in your home. Let s dive into this delightful recipe that s both easy to prepare and sure to impress!

Why is this Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala a must-try?

Quick Preparation: This recipe can be ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for bustling weeknights.

Rich, Creamy Sauce: The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a luscious sauce that comforts the soul.

Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: You likely have most of these simple ingredients in your kitchen already no last-minute grocery runs required!

Versatile Options: Feel free to switch chicken for chickpeas or shrimp for a delightful twist, catering to various dietary preferences.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Impress guests or family with this authentic taste that rivals any restaurant dish.

Serve it with warm naan or over a bed of fluffy rice for a truly satisfying experience!

Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala Ingredients

For the Curry Paste
Medium Yellow Onion Base flavor and sweetness; can substitute with red onion.
Shallot Adds mild onion flavor; omit if not available.
Garlic (6 cloves) Enhances aroma and flavor; substitute with garlic powder if needed.
Fresh Ginger (2 pieces) Delivers warmth and spice; ground ginger can be used, but fresh is preferred.
Garam Masala (3 tablespoons) Essential for authentic flavor; substitute with curry powder in a pinch.
Ground Turmeric (2 teaspoons) Adds Earthy color; omit if unavailable to avoid flavor change.
Kosher Salt (2 teaspoons) Essential seasoning; adjust to taste.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1 teaspoon) Adds heat; customize based on your spice preference.
Zest of 1 Lemon Provides brightness and acidity; fresh lemon juice can substitute if zest is unavailable.

For the Chicken
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (2 pounds) Main protein source; chicken thighs offer more richness.
Full-Fat Plain Greek Yogurt ( ½ cup) Tenderizes chicken and adds creaminess; can use dairy-free yogurt for a lighter version.

For the Sauce
Full-Fat Unsweetened Coconut Milk (1 can, 14 oz) Adds creaminess and coconut flavor; light coconut milk can substitute for lower fat.
Tomato Paste (1 can, 6 oz) Adds depth and richness; tomato sauce can be used as a substitute.
Cilantro ( ¼ cup, chopped) Fresh herb garnish; can substitute with parsley if desired.

For Serving
Cooked Rice (3 cups) Serves as a base for the curry; can replace with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

This Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala is a nourishing meal that s sure to delight!

How to Make Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala

1. Blend Curry Paste: Combine the medium yellow onion, shallot, garlic, fresh ginger, garam masala, turmeric, kosher salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and lemon zest in a blender. Blend until smooth to create a fragrant curry paste.

2. Marinate Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breast into a zip-top bag. Add 2 tablespoons of your prepared curry paste and the Greek yogurt. Massage gently and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.

3. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat ¼ to ½ cup of the remaining curry paste over medium heat until fragrant. Add in the marinated chicken, coconut milk, and tomato paste. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

4. Finish and Serve: Remove the lid and allow the sauce to simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken. Stir in chopped cilantro for fresh flavor and serve over warm cooked rice for a comforting meal.

Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for an extra burst of brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to personalize your dish!

• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with chickpeas for a hearty and protein-rich alternative, perfect for meatless meals.

• Seafood: Replace chicken with shrimp for a quick-cooking, succulent option that adds a touch of elegance to your curry.

• Paneer: For a creamy, rich texture, swap chicken for paneer cheese, a delightful vegetarian protein that pairs beautifully with spices.

• Extra Veggies: Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or peas to boost nutrition and color, making your dish even more vibrant and wholesome.

• Spice it Up: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick, or add diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat.

• Coconut Creamy: Use full-fat coconut cream instead of coconut milk for an ultra-creamy sauce that amps up the coconut flavor delightfully.

• Low-Carb: Swap out rice for cauliflower rice, creating a lower-carb dish that still feels hearty and satisfying.

• Citrusy Twist: Add the juice of an extra lemon or lime before serving for a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce.

Storage Tips for Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the chicken tikka masala to cool before refrigerating to maintain its flavors.

• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Add a splash of coconut milk if it becomes too thick.

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the curry paste ahead of time and refrigerate for up to a month or freeze for longer, making it quick to whip up your Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala on busy nights.

Make Ahead Options

These Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala make-ahead options are a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can prepare the curry paste up to 3 days in advance by blending the onion, shallot, garlic, ginger, and spices, then storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, marinate the chicken with the curry paste and yogurt up to 24 hours ahead; this not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken with the coconut milk and tomato paste as directed in the recipe. This way, you can enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of your Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala?

Elevate your meal by pairing this creamy and aromatic delight with complementary dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors.

• Warm Naan: Soft, pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up the rich sauce, adding a comforting touch.

• Fragrant Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice absorbs the bold tikka masala flavors, creating a delightful balance on your plate.

• Cucumber Raita: This cool and creamy yogurt-based side offers a refreshing contrast to the spices, cleansing your palate beautifully.

• Steamed Broccoli: Tender and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and a splash of color to your meal.

• Roasted Cauliflower: With its nutty flavor, roasted cauliflower enhances the overall experience and provides a lovely texture contrast.

• Chickpea Salad: A simple salad of chickpeas, tomatoes, and cucumbers brings a burst of fresh flavor, complementing the spices in the tikka masala.

• Mango Lassi: This creamy, sweet yogurt drink provides a cooling counterpoint to the heat of the dish, making every sip a delight.

• Cardamom Chai: Enjoy a warm cup of spiced chai after your meal for a comforting finish that ties in beautifully with the dish.

Expert Tips for Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala

• Batch-Cook Paste: Consider making a larger batch of curry paste and refrigerating or freezing it. This saves time for future meals and ensures that your Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala is always ready to go!

• Marinating Tip: If you re short on time, don t hesitate to skip marinating the chicken. While marinating enhances flavor, you can still achieve delicious results without it.

• Adjusting Spice Level: To cater to varying spice preferences, control the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. Start with half the suggested amount and add more if you enjoy extra heat.

• Using Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and simply reheat on the stove.

• Serving Suggestions: For a delightful experience, serve your Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala with warm naan or over fluffy rice. A side of cucumber raita offers a refreshing contrast!

Super Simple Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose a medium yellow onion that feels firm and heavy for its size. If you can find shallots, opt for those that are smooth and free from dark spots. When it comes to garlic, select bulbs that are plump and have tight skin. Fresh ginger should be firm with smooth skin, and you can opt for a piece that feels heavy. Always pick coconut milk with a long shelf-life and check for a seal to ensure freshness!

How should I store leftovers of Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala?
Very! Store any leftover Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For the best flavor retention, allow it to cool slightly before sealing it in the container. When you re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat.

Can I freeze this dish for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze your Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala, let it cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy it, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on low heat, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of coconut milk if it looks too thick after reheating!

What if my sauce is too watery or too thick?
Don t worry! If your sauce is too watery, continue to simmer it uncovered on low heat to help evaporate some of the excess liquid until it thickens to your liking. Conversely, if the sauce is too thick, you can add a little coconut milk or even a splash of water to loosen it up. Just stir it in gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you re cooking for those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For gluten-free needs, ensure that the ingredients you use, like yogurt and paste, are gluten-free. For dairy-free versions, opt for a plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. This Coconut Chicken Tikka Masala is versatile, allowing for substitutions to meet various dietary preferences like using chickpeas for a vegetarian option! Just ensure that any alternatives still capture those delicious flavors.

How can I enhance the flavors of the dish?
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. This simple addition elevates the dish s brightness and brings all the ingredients together beautifully. Additionally, garnishing with fresh cilantro will enhance the presentation and add a lovely freshness that complements the creaminess of the sauce. Enjoy experimenting!