Are you craving some delicious Chicken Tikka Masala for dinner tonight? Look no further than this 335 g container. With 310 calories per serving, it's a great option for anyone looking for a quick and easy meal.

But what exactly is Chicken Tikka Masala? At its core, it is a popular Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce.

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients and preparation of this classic dish, as well as its nutritional information and potential health benefits and risks. Plus, we'll share some tips on how to store and even enhance the flavor of your Chicken Tikka Masala.

What is Chicken Tikka Masala?

As mentioned, Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish that often features tender chunks of chicken marinated in spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, then roasted or grilled. It is then simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce that typically contains spices like garam masala and paprika. While it's not exactly clear where the dish originated, it is thought to have been created in the UK in the 1960s, potentially as a way to make spicier Indian dishes more palatable to British tastes.

Ingredients in Chicken Tikka Masala

The exact ingredients in Chicken Tikka Masala can vary slightly depending on the recipe or restaurant, but some common components include:

• Chicken (often boneless, skinless breast)
• Yogurt or cream (to make the sauce creamy)
• Tomatoes (for the base of the sauce)
• Spices (such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and paprika)
• Ginger and garlic (for flavor)
• Onions (to add sweetness and depth to the sauce)

How is Chicken Tikka Masala prepared?

To prepare Chicken Tikka Masala, the chicken is first marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices. It is then either grilled or roasted until cooked through and slightly charred. The sauce is prepared separately, often by sautéing chopped onions, ginger, and garlic in oil until soft and fragrant, then adding pureed or diced tomatoes, spices, and cream or yogurt. The chicken and sauce are combined and simmered together until heated through. While the recipe itself may sound complex, there are many packaged or pre-made versions of Chicken Tikka Masala available in stores for quick and easy preparation.

Nutritional Information of Chicken Tikka Masala

One serving (335 g) of Chicken Tikka Masala contains approximately:

• 310 calories
• 18 g fat
• 7 g saturated fat
• 1050 mg sodium
• 16 g carbohydrates
• 3 g fiber
• 10 g sugar
• 21 g protein

While this can be a relatively high calorie or sodium option for some, it is also relatively high in protein and certain vitamins and minerals like vitamin A and iron.

Serving Size of Chicken Tikka Masala

One container (335 g) of Chicken Tikka Masala contains one serving.

Benefits of Eating Chicken Tikka Masala

While Chicken Tikka Masala may not necessarily be a "health food," it can still provide some nutritional benefits. For example, the dish is relatively high in protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. Additionally, some of the spices used in the dish can have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may offer health benefits over time. Of course, the specific benefits will depend on the individual's overall diet and lifestyle.

Where to buy Chicken Tikka Masala?

Fortunately, Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular dish that is widely available in many grocery stores and restaurants. Many stores will carry pre-made versions of the dish for easy preparation at home, or you can find it on the menu at many Indian restaurants.

Health Risks of Eating Chicken Tikka Masala

While Chicken Tikka Masala can certainly be a delicious and satisfying meal, there are some potential health risks to consider as well. For example, the dish can be relatively high in calories, fat, and sodium, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess. Additionally, some pre-made or restaurant versions of the dish may contain added sugars, preservatives, or other additives that can be less healthy. As always, it is important to enjoy Chicken Tikka Masala and other meals in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How to store Chicken Tikka Masala?

If you have leftovers of Chicken Tikka Masala, it is important to store them properly to avoid spoilage or foodborne illness. Ideally, the dish should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days. If you want to freeze the dish for longer storage, it can be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Ways to enhance the taste of Chicken Tikka Masala

If you want to elevate the flavor of your Chicken Tikka Masala, there are several ways to do so. Here are a few ideas:

• Add extra spices to the marinade or sauce, such as cinnamon or cardamom, for additional depth of flavor.
• Serve the dish over fluffy basmati rice, with naan bread or other Indian accompaniments on the side.
• Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, or a drizzle of yogurt for added texture and richness.