1 tray (241 g) of chicken tikka masala contains about 360 Calories. This popular Indian dish is known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender chunks of chicken. But before you indulge, it's important to be aware of its Nutritional facts.

In addition to the calorie count, a serving of chicken tikka masala has 18 grams of Fat, 23 grams of Carbohydrates, and 24 grams of Protein. It also contains significant amounts of Sodium and various Vitamins and Minerals.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Nutritional content of chicken tikka masala, its ingredients, cooking instructions, and potential Health benefits.

Calories in Chicken Tikka Masala

As mentioned earlier, one serving of chicken tikka masala, which is about 1 tray or 241 grams, has 360 Calories. This makes up about 18% of the daily recommended intake for a 2000 calorie diet. However, calorie counts may vary depending on the recipe and cooking method used. If you're trying to watch your caloric intake, it's important to read Nutrition labels and be mindful of portion sizes. Additionally, pairing chicken tikka masala with healthier sides like brown rice or steamed vegetables can help balance out the calorie count.

Fat Content in Chicken Tikka Masala

A serving of chicken tikka masala has 18 grams of Fat, with 4 grams coming from saturated fat. This makes up about 28% of the daily recommended intake for a 2000 calorie diet. However, not all types of fats are created equal. Chicken tikka masala contains both healthy unsaturated fats and less healthy saturated fats. It's important to choose balanced meals throughout the day to ensure you're getting the right types and amounts of fats. You can also try to make healthier versions of chicken tikka masala at home using leaner Protein sources or reducing the amount of added fat in the recipe.

Protein Content in Chicken Tikka Masala

One serving of chicken tikka masala has 24 grams of Protein, making it a good source of this macronutrient. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. However, be mindful of the source of protein in your chicken tikka masala. Traditional recipes may use chicken thighs or other dark meat, which can be higher in Fat and Calories. Choosing leaner proteins like chicken breast or tofu can help balance out the Nutrition profile of this dish. You can also experiment with adding other protein sources like chickpeas or lentils to your chicken tikka masala for added nutrition and flavor.

Carbohydrate Content in Chicken Tikka Masala

A serving of chicken tikka masala has 23 grams of Carbohydrates, with 3 grams coming from Fiber. This makes up about 8% of the daily recommended intake for a 2000 calorie diet. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body, but not all carbohydrates are created equal. Choosing complex carbohydrates like brown rice or whole grain naan can help provide sustained energy and keep you feeling full. However, be aware that some versions of chicken tikka masala may contain added sugars, which can contribute to the carbohydrate count. Reading Nutrition labels and being mindful of portion sizes can help you make more informed choices about this dish.

Sodium Content in Chicken Tikka Masala

One serving of chicken tikka masala contains about 900 milligrams of Sodium, which is about 40% of the recommended daily intake for most adults. While some sodium is necessary for proper bodily function, excessive intake can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues. Choosing low-sodium versions of chicken tikka masala or reducing the amount of added salt in your recipe can help keep your sodium intake in check. Additionally, pairing this dish with fresh vegetables or a side salad can help balance out the sodium content and provide additional nutrients.

Fiber Content in Chicken Tikka Masala

One serving of chicken tikka masala has about 3 grams of Fiber, which is about 11% of the daily recommended intake for most adults. Fiber is important for digestive health and can also help lower cholesterol levels and promote feelings of fullness. However, many traditional versions of chicken tikka masala may not be very high in fiber. You can boost the fiber content of this dish by including more vegetables or legumes, or by swapping out white rice for brown rice or quinoa.

Vitamins and Minerals in Chicken Tikka Masala

One serving of chicken tikka masala contains significant amounts of several Vitamins and Minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. Vitamin A is important for healthy vision, immune function, and skin health, while vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage. Calcium and iron are both essential minerals for maintaining healthy bones and red blood cells, respectively. While chicken tikka masala can be a good source of these nutrients, it's important to also include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet to ensure you're getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs.

Ingredients in Chicken Tikka Masala

The traditional ingredients in chicken tikka masala include chicken, yogurt, cream, and a variety of spices and seasonings like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. However, different recipes may use different variations of these ingredients, and some versions may also include additional vegetables like bell peppers or onions. If you're making chicken tikka masala at home, be mindful of the types and amounts of ingredients you're using. Choosing leaner Protein sources like chicken breast or tofu and using lower Fat dairy products can help reduce the overall calorie and fat content of this dish.

Cooking Instructions for Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken tikka masala can be made in a variety of ways, but the basic steps involve marinating chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices, grilling or baking the chicken until it's cooked through, and then adding it to a creamy tomato-based sauce. Different recipes may call for different spices or variations of the sauce, and some versions may also include additional vegetables or Protein sources. If you're making chicken tikka masala at home, be sure to follow food safety guidelines for handling and cooking chicken, and consider using lower Fat versions of dairy products or substituting some of the cream with coconut milk for a healthier twist on this classic dish.

Health Benefits of Chicken Tikka Masala

While chicken tikka masala may not be the healthiest dish on its own, it does offer some potential Health benefits when eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For example, the spices used in this dish like turmeric and cumin have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help prevent chronic diseases. Additionally, incorporating lean Protein sources like chicken into your meals can help support healthy muscle development, and pairing this dish with vegetables or whole grains can help increase your overall nutrient intake.