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A close-up of a chicken tikka masala meal prep bowl, showing tender chicken in a creamy sauce next to white rice.

Chicken Tikka Masala Meal Prep: The Ultimate Weekly Recipe

An easy, flavorful, and perfectly optimized chicken tikka masala recipe designed for weekly meal prep. Features tender, juicy chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce that tastes amazing even after reheating.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt
For the Tikka Masala Sauce
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil divided
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp dried fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi)
  • Salt to taste
For Serving
  • 4 cups cooked basmati rice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 4 Meal Prep Containers
  • 2 Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, plain yogurt, 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 2 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp cumin, Kashmiri red chili powder, and 1 tsp salt. Mix until the chicken is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and charred in spots. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in 1 tbsp of ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground coriander, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp garam masala, and 1/2 tsp turmeric. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until the spices are toasted and aromatic.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stir well, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until combined. Return the cooked chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Crush the dried fenugreek leaves between your palms as you sprinkle them into the sauce. Stir to combine.
  7. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender and absorb the flavors. Season with salt to taste.
  8. To assemble meal prep bowls, divide the cooked basmati rice among 4 containers. Top with the chicken tikka masala. Cool completely before sealing and refrigerating for up to 4 days. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

For a dairy-free option: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream and a coconut-based yogurt for the marinade.
Spice Level: Kashmiri red chili powder adds color without much heat. For a spicier dish, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Make Ahead: The marinade can be prepared a day in advance. The finished dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.