10 Top Chicken Recipes With Garam Masala

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10 Top Chicken Recipes With Garam Masala

Introduction

This collection of 10 original recipes showcases some of the most in-demand variations, inspired by regional cooking trends such as grilling, slow cooking, and quick stovetop curries. Each recipe is designed for simplicity, making them accessible to both beginners and seasoned cooks. Beyond their delicious taste, these dishes deliver health benefits thanks to garam masala’s antioxidant, digestive, and anti-inflammatory properties. Whether you are looking to explore authentic Indian flavors or experiment with creative fusions, these garam masala chicken recipes will bring both flavor and wellness to your table.

Table of Contents

  1. Garam Masala Chicken Curry
  2. Butter Chicken with Garam Masala
  3. Garam Masala Grilled Chicken Thighs
  4. Garam Masala Chicken Tikka Masala
  5. Garam Masala Chicken and Potato Bake
  6. Garam Masala Chicken Lentil Soup
  7. Garam Masala Chicken Skewers
  8. Garam Masala Chicken in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
  9. Garam Masala Slow Cooker Chicken
  10. Garam Masala Chicken Tacos
  11. FAQs
garam masala chicken recipes

1. Garam Masala Chicken Curry Recipe

If you love bold, aromatic flavors, this quick chicken curry brings the magic of garam masala straight to your kitchen. The fragrant spice blend adds warmth, depth, and a touch of earthiness, turning simple ingredients into a rich, comforting meal you can whip up any night of the week. Perfect with rice or naan, it’s a flavorful hug in a bowl.

Cuisine: Indian-inspired, popular in the USA
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1½ cups diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp garlic salt
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tsp garam masala, divided
  • ½ cup coconut milk
  • Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1½ cups diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp garlic salt
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tsp garam masala, divided
  • ½ cup coconut milk
  • Chopped cilantro, for garnish

2. Butter Chicken with Garam Masala

Butter chicken is a classic Indian dish beloved for its creamy texture and rich, spiced flavor. In this version, garam masala takes center stage, infusing the sauce with warmth and aromatic depth. Popular in Australia and New Zealand for its balance of comfort and bold flavor, this recipe pairs tender marinated chicken with a buttery tomato base, finished with cream for a luxurious finish. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, especially when served with naan or steamed rice.

Cuisine: Indian, popular in Australia/New Zealand
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Servings: 6


Ingredients:

  • 2 lb chicken thighs, boneless, cut into pieces
  • ¾ cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp grated garlic
  • 2 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp red chili powder
  • ⅓ cup butter
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

    1. Marinate chicken with yogurt, ginger, garlic, 1 tbsp garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder for 20 minutes.
    2. Melt butter in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry onion until golden, about 4 minutes.
    3. Add tomato puree and remaining 1 tbsp garam masala. Cook for 5 minutes.
    4. Add marinated chicken, stir, and simmer for 20 minutes until tender.
    5. Stir in cream, cook 5 minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve with naan or rice.

    Nutrition (per serving): 510 kcal, 28g protein, 10g carbs, 40g fat

3. Garam Masala Grilled Chicken Thighs

This fusion-style dish combines the smoky flavors of grilling with the aromatic depth of garam masala. The yogurt-based marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with spices, citrus, and a hint of paprika for color and warmth. Popular in both the USA and Australia, it is a versatile recipe that works well for outdoor barbecues or indoor grill pans. Serve it with fresh cucumber and mint for a refreshing contrast to the bold, spiced flavors.

Cuisine: Fusion, popular in USA/Australia
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
  • ¾ cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 garlic cloves, grated
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • Cucumber slices and mint for serving

Instructions:

  1. Mix yogurt, garam masala, paprika, garlic, lemon juice, zest, olive oil, and salt. Coat chicken thighs and marinate for 2 hours or overnight.
  2. Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until charred and cooked to 165°F (74°C).
  3. Rest chicken for 5 minutes, then slice.
  4. Serve with cucumber slices and mint leaves, wrapped in flatbread or with rice.

Nutrition (per serving): 280 kcal, 25g protein, 5g carbs, 18g fat

4. Garam Masala Chicken Tikka Masala

A beloved classic in Indian cuisine and a favorite in the USA, this dish brings together tender marinated chicken, creamy coconut milk, and the bold, aromatic warmth of garam masala. The yogurt marinade ensures juicy, flavorful chicken, while the spiced tomato sauce delivers a rich depth that’s perfect with naan or rice. It’s a comforting, restaurant-style meal you can easily make at home.

Cuisine: Indian, popular in USA
Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4


Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
  • ½ cup yogurt
  • 2 tbsp garam masala, divided
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • ¾ cup coconut milk
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

    1. Marinate chicken with yogurt, 1 tbsp garam masala, and turmeric for 30 minutes.
    2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
    3. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft, about 3 minutes.
    4. Add tomato puree, coconut milk, and remaining 1 tbsp garam masala. Simmer for 15 minutes.
    5. Return chicken to skillet, cook 5 minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve with naan.

    Nutrition (per serving): 300 kcal, 26g protein, 10g carbs, 15g fat

5. Garam Masala Chicken and Potato Bake

This New Zealand–inspired fusion dish combines the earthy comfort of roasted potatoes with the warm, aromatic depth of garam masala. Bone-in chicken thighs stay juicy and tender while baking alongside seasoned potatoes and onions, creating a one-pan meal that is both hearty and full of flavor. It is an easy, family-friendly recipe that pairs beautifully with a fresh cucumber salad for a balanced dinner.

Cuisine: Fusion, popular in New Zealand
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4


Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken thighs, bone-in
  • 2 large potatoes, cubed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp butter, cubed
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

    1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    2. Toss chicken, potatoes, and onion with olive oil, garam masala, and salt in a baking dish.
    3. Scatter butter cubes over the top and pour broth around the edges.
    4. Bake for 40–45 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and potatoes are tender.
    5. Garnish with parsley and serve with a cucumber salad.
    Nutrition (per serving): 400 kcal, 25g protein, 30g carbs, 20g fat

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6. Garam Masala Chicken Lentil Soup Recipe

This comforting soup blends tender shredded chicken, protein-rich red lentils, and the aromatic warmth of garam masala for a nourishing bowl perfect on cooler days. Popular in both the USA and New Zealand, it is a wholesome, one-pot meal that is easy to prepare and naturally satisfying. With turmeric adding color and extra health benefits, this soup is ideal for a light dinner or a hearty lunch.

Cuisine: Comfort food, popular in USA/New Zealand
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 35 mins | Servings: 6


Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

    1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, about 3 minutes.
    2. Add garam masala and turmeric, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
    3. Stir in lentils, carrots, and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25 minutes until lentils are soft.
    4. Add chicken, heat through for 5 minutes.
    5. Garnish with cilantro and serve with crusty bread.

    Nutrition (per serving): 250 kcal, 20g protein, 25g carbs, 8g fat

7. Garam Masala Chicken Skewers

These juicy chicken skewers, marinated in yogurt, garam masala, and smoked paprika, bring a fragrant twist to classic BBQ favorites. Popular in Australia, they balance smoky charred edges with tender, flavorful meat, complemented by grilled vegetables. Perfect for outdoor gatherings, they pair beautifully with flatbread and a cooling yogurt dip.

Cuisine: BBQ, popular in Australia
Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Servings: 4


Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
  • ½ cup yogurt
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 red bell pepper, cubed
  • 1 onion, cubed
  • Olive oil for grilling

Instructions:

    1. Marinate chicken with yogurt, garam masala, paprika, lemon juice, and salt for 1 hour.
    2. Thread chicken, bell pepper, and onion onto skewers.
    3. Preheat grill to medium-high, brush with oil.
    4. Grill skewers for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
    5. Serve with flatbread and a yogurt dip.

    Nutrition (per serving): 220 kcal, 24g protein, 8g carbs, 10g fat

8. Garam Masala Chicken in Creamy Mushroom Sauce

This fusion dish pairs tender chicken with the rich earthiness of mushrooms and the warm, aromatic notes of garam masala. Popular in the USA, it combines classic creamy sauce elements with Indian-inspired spices for a comforting meal that is both familiar and exciting. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice for a satisfying dinner.

Cuisine: Fusion, popular in USA
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 ½ tsp garam masala
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup chicken broth
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

    1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with garam masala and sear until golden, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
    2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft, about 3 minutes. Add mushrooms, cook for 5 minutes.
    3. Pour in broth and cream, stir, and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
    4. Return chicken to skillet, cook 5 minutes.
    5. Garnish with parsley and serve with mashed potatoes or rice.

    Nutrition (per serving): 350 kcal, 25g protein, 8g carbs, 25g fat

9. Garam Masala Slow Cooker Chicken

This easy-to-prepare slow cooker recipe brings the rich flavors of garam masala to tender, slow-cooked chicken thighs. Popular in New Zealand, the dish combines coconut milk and warming spices for a creamy, flavorful sauce that requires minimal effort. Perfect for busy days, it pairs well with couscous or rice and fresh salads for a balanced, comforting meal.

Cuisine: Easy prep, popular in New Zealand
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 4 hrs | Servings: 6

Ingredients:

  • 5 lb chicken thighs, boneless
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

    1. Place chicken, onion, tomatoes, garam masala, turmeric, and salt in a slow cooker.
    2. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
    3. Cook on low for 4 hours or until chicken is tender.
    4. Shred chicken in the sauce, then garnish with basil.
    5. Serve with couscous or rice and a tomato-cucumber salad.

    Nutrition (per serving): 320 kcal, 26g protein, 10g carbs, 20g fat

10. Garam Masala Chicken Tacos

This fusion dish blends the bold, aromatic flavors of garam masala with the casual ease of tacos, creating a flavorful twist popular in the USA. Tender chicken thighs are seasoned with Indian spices and served in warm tortillas topped with fresh tomatoes and cilantro. Quick to prepare, these tacos offer a delicious way to enjoy Indian-inspired flavors.

Cuisine: Fusion, popular in USA
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless, cubed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 ½ tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • 8 small tortillas
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

    1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Toss chicken with garam masala, cumin, and chili powder, then cook for 8–10 minutes until cooked through.
    2. Warm tortillas in a dry pan or microwave.
    3. Divide chicken among tortillas, top with tomatoes and cilantro.
    4. Squeeze lime juice over tacos and serve with a side salad.
    Nutrition (per serving): 300 kcal, 22g protein, 25g carbs, 12g fat

FAQs

1. What is garam masala, and why is it popular in chicken recipes?

Garam masala is a traditional Indian spice blend made from ground cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. It is widely used in chicken recipes because it imparts a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the meat’s tenderness and complexity. Beyond taste, garam masala offers health benefits such as antioxidant properties and digestive support, making it both a flavorful and nutritious addition to dishes.

Yes, you can easily make garam masala at home. Toast 2 tablespoons of cumin seeds, 1 tablespoon of coriander seeds, 1 teaspoon of cardamom pods, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon of cloves, and ½ teaspoon of black peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Let the spices cool, then grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Store the blend in an airtight container for up to 3 months to maintain freshness and flavor in your recipes.

Absolutely. Each recipe features straightforward instructions, uses common ingredients, and requires minimal prep time, most under 20 minutes. For an easy start, try the Quick Garam Masala Chicken Curry or Garam Masala Chicken Skewers, which are perfect for cooks new to Indian spices and flavor combinations.

Garam masala provides warm, aromatic flavor without being overly spicy. To reduce heat, simply use less garam masala—try halving the amount—or omit any added chili powder. For a spicier kick, add fresh chilies, cayenne pepper, or extra chili powder to taste. It’s best to start mild and adjust gradually while cooking to suit your preference.

For dairy-free alternatives, replace yogurt or cream with coconut milk or other plant-based milks. To make vegetarian versions, substitute chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or other legumes. When fresh produce is available, feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers in bakes, soups, or curries to suit your taste and availability.

These recipes focus on lean proteins, plenty of vegetables, and nutrient-rich spices like garam masala, which supports digestion and helps reduce inflammation. They fit well with popular dietary preferences such as low-carb, gluten-free, and keto. Dishes like the grilled chicken thighs and lentil soup offer high protein and fiber content, making them both flavorful and aligned with current health-conscious eating trends.

Yes, most of these recipes can be marinated or fully cooked ahead of time. Butter chicken and slow cooker dishes reheat particularly well without losing flavor or texture. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 1 month for convenient meal prep.

Garam masala chicken pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or quinoa to provide satisfying carbohydrates. Cooling sides like cucumber salad or raita complement the warm spices, while roasted vegetables add texture and balance. In New Zealand, serving garam masala chicken with kumara (sweet potato) offers a delicious local twist.

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