Best Vegan Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe for Flavorful Meals

If you’re craving the rich, comforting flavors of traditional chicken tikka masala but want to keep things completely plant-based, you’re in for a treat! This best vegan chicken tikka masala recipe brings all the classic Indian spices and creamy tomato sauce you love, without any animal products.

Using tender, marinated vegan chicken substitutes and a luscious coconut cream-based sauce, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to add more plant-forward meals to your routine, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction.

Prepare to impress your family and friends with this vibrant, aromatic dish that pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. Plus, it’s quite simple to make, with easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps.

Ready to dive into this delicious journey? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan chicken tikka masala recipe stands out for several reasons:

• Authentic flavor: We use traditional Indian spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander to create that unmistakable tikka masala taste.
• Plant-based protein: The vegan chicken substitute mimics the texture and chewiness of real chicken, making it a satisfying alternative.
• Rich and creamy sauce: Using coconut cream and cashew cream creates a luscious, dairy-free sauce that’s both indulgent and healthy.
• Easy to customize: Adjust spice levels or swap ingredients to suit your preferences or pantry staples.
• Great for meal prep: This dish stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients

• For the vegan chicken marinade:
• 400g (14 oz) vegan chicken strips or tofu, pressed and cubed
• 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based yogurt (coconut or soy-based works best)
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• For the tikka masala sauce:
• 2 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup coconut cream
• 1/4 cup cashew cream (soak 1/4 cup cashews in hot water for 30 minutes, then blend with 1/4 cup water until smooth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl (for marinating)
• Non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Medium saucepan
• Blender (for cashew cream)
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegan chicken marinade: In a large bowl, combine the plant-based yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well until smooth.
2. Add the vegan chicken strips or tofu cubes: Toss them gently in the marinade until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours for best flavor.
3. Make the cashew cream: While the vegan chicken marinates, soak cashews in hot water for 30 minutes. Drain and blend with fresh water until smooth. Set aside.
4. Cook the marinated vegan chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated vegan chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
5. Prepare the tikka masala sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining oil. Sauté chopped onions over medium heat until translucent and lightly golden, about 5 minutes.
6. Add garlic and ginger: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
7. Spice it up: Add ground coriander, cumin, garam masala, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the onion mixture and cook spices for 1-2 minutes to release their aroma.
8. Add the crushed tomatoes: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Let simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Stir in coconut cream and cashew cream: Lower the heat and mix in the coconut cream and cashew cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Combine vegan chicken and sauce: Return the cooked vegan chicken pieces to the sauce. Stir to coat evenly and cook for an additional 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
11. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot with fluffy basmati rice or vegan naan bread.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or lightly char the vegan chicken pieces on a grill pan before adding to the sauce.”

• Vegan chicken options: Use seitan, soy curls, or tempeh instead of vegan chicken strips or tofu for different textures.
• Heat level: Adjust the chili powder and add fresh chopped green chilies if you prefer a spicier dish.
• Dairy-free alternatives: If you don’t have cashews, substitute with silken tofu blended with a little coconut milk for creaminess.
• Make it nut-free: Omit cashew cream and increase coconut cream by 1/4 cup.
• Meal prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan chicken tikka masala is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. For a classic Indian meal, pair it with steamed basmati rice, which soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.

Alternatively, serve it with warm vegan naan or garlic flatbread to scoop up the delicious curry.

For a low-carb option, try serving with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables. You can also add a side of fresh cucumber raita (using plant-based yogurt) to cool off the spices.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lemon, and some toasted nuts like cashews or almonds for an extra crunch.

Conclusion

This best vegan chicken tikka masala recipe brilliantly captures the essence of the beloved classic, without compromising on flavor or texture. The blend of authentic spices, creamy coconut and cashew base, and tender vegan chicken makes it a standout meal for anyone seeking plant-based comfort food.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is approachable, adaptable, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spice levels or try different vegan protein options to make it your own. For more delicious vegan recipes, check out our Julie Marie Eats Recipes or explore hearty dishes like our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to try baking your own bread to serve alongside this curry with our Marzipan Challah Recipe.

Enjoy your cooking journey and the delicious results!

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