Mediterranean Roasted Chicken Tikka in Spiced Masala Sauce
This dish brings together juicy, yogurt-marinated chicken tikka with a fragrant, rich masala-style sauce infused with Mediterranean touches — like olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs. Roasting adds a slightly smoky char, while the sauce stays creamy, spiced, and aromatic.
Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marination Time: Minimum 1 hour (overnight preferred)
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: ~1.5–2 hours (with marination)
Serves: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
1.5 lbs (700g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
1½ tsp ground cumin
1½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp turmeric
½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 tsp salt
Optional: 1 tbsp tomato paste or purée (adds color and umami)
For the Masala Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1½ tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp coriander
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup crushed tomatoes or passata
¾ cup coconut milk or heavy cream
½ tsp sugar (balances acidity)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Optional: 1 tbsp harissa or red pepper paste for Mediterranean flair
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix all marinade ingredients until smooth.
Add chicken and toss to coat well.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
Roast the Chicken
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or use a grill pan.
Arrange marinated chicken pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly charred and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Optionally broil for 2 minutes at the end for extra color.
Make the Masala Sauce
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onions until soft and golden (6–8 mins).
Add garlic, ginger, and spices. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes.
Add cream or coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Simmer 10 minutes until thickened slightly.
Combine and Serve
Add roasted chicken to the sauce and simmer together for 5–7 minutes.
Garnish with chopped herbs.
Serve with warm naan, flatbread, or rice.
Tips & Variations
Tips for Success
Marinate longer for deeper flavor: Overnight marination gives the best flavor and tenderness.
Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results, but breasts work too.
Don’t overcrowd the tray when roasting — this ensures you get a good char, not steaming.
Char on a grill or cast iron if you want an extra smoky, traditional touch.
Variations
Grill it: Instead of roasting, skewer and grill the chicken for an authentic tikka kebab vibe.
Add veggies: Include roasted bell peppers or onions with the chicken for a more colorful dish.
Cream swap: Use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option with a slightly sweeter edge.
Spice it up: Add cayenne or fresh green chili to the sauce for more heat.
Tangy twist: Stir in a splash of red wine vinegar or sumac to the sauce for a citrusy lift.
Fresh herbs: Top with fresh parsley or mint instead of cilantro for a Mediterranean twist.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Both the sauce and the chicken can be made ahead. Store separately or together in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. This dish freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Use marinated and roasted tofu or chickpeas, or even roasted cauliflower, in place of the chicken.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, the dish is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your spices, tomato products, and yogurt are certified gluten-free.
Nutrition Information (Approximate, per serving)
Based on 4 servings with coconut milk:
Calories: 460
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 550mg
For lower fat, use light coconut milk or Greek yogurt instead of cream.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Roasted Chicken Tikka in Masala Sauce brings together the best of both worlds — smoky, tender marinated chicken with the comforting depth of spiced, creamy tomato sauce, all brightened with Mediterranean herbs and lemon.
It’s a dish that feels indulgent but balanced, perfect for weeknights or entertaining. Serve it with rice, flatbread, or a crisp side salad for a complete meal that satisfies and impresses.