Paneer masala and chicken tikka masala are two popular Indian dishes that have some similarities but are also quite different. Both dishes are curries made with a masala (spice mix) and contain chunks of the main protein (paneer cheese or chicken), but the specific ingredients and preparation methods set them apart.
In this article, we’ll explore the origins, ingredients, and cooking methods for paneer masala and chicken tikka masala. We’ll compare and contrast the two dishes so you can understand exactly how they differ. Whether you’re a curry enthusiast or simply curious, read on to learn all about these iconic Indian recipes!
What is Paneer Masala?
Paneer masala is a creamy, flavorful curry made by simmering paneer (a type of fresh cheese common in Indian cuisine) in a tomato-based masala gravy. “Masala” refers to the spices used in the dish. Here’s an overview of paneer masala:
Origins: Paneer masala originated in Northern India. It’s a staple dish in North Indian restaurants and homes.
Main Ingredients:
- Paneer – cubed or diced into chunks
- Tomatoes – pureed into a gravy
- Onion
- Ginger & garlic
- Spices – coriander, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder
- Fresh cilantro
- Cream or coconut milk
Cooking Method:
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger.
- Add tomatoes and cook down into a gravy.
- Season with spices and salt.
- Add paneer cubes and simmer in gravy for a few minutes.
- Finish with cream/coconut milk and cilantro.
The result is a rich, velvety curry where the paneer chunks soak up all the flavors of the masala gravy. It’s medium spicy from the chili powder and incredibly comforting. Paneer masala is usually enjoyed with a side of rice or Indian bread like naan or roti.
What is Chicken Tikka Masala?
Chicken tikka masala is among the most popular Indian dishes around the world. It consists of roasted chicken tikka (chicken pieces) in a creamy, tomato-based masala gravy. Here’s an overview:
Origins: Chicken tikka masala originated at Indian restaurants in Britain. It was likely invented by South Asian chefs adapting Indian cuisine to Western tastes. Its origins are debated, but it became popular in the UK in the 1970s.
Main Ingredients:
- Chicken tikka (marinated and roasted) – cubed or diced
- Tomatoes – pureed into a gravy
- Onion
- Ginger & garlic
- Spices – garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, chili powder
- Fresh cilantro
- Yogurt or cream
Cooking Method:
- Marinate chicken pieces in yogurt, spices, lemon juice, etc.
- Bake/grill chicken into tikka pieces.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger.
- Add tomato puree and cook into gravy.
- Season gravy with spices and salt.
- Add roasted tikka pieces and simmer in gravy.
- Finish with cream/yogurt and cilantro.
The chicken tikka provides texture and absorbs the rich masala gravy. The result is a creamy, mildly spicy curry that is irresistible. Chicken tikka masala is usually served with rice and naan bread.
Paneer Masala vs. Chicken Tikka Masala
Now that we’ve explored the basics of paneer masala and chicken tikka masala, let’s directly compare the two:
Protein Main Ingredient
The key protein sets these dishes apart:
- Paneer masala – Cubed paneer (Indian cottage cheese). A soft, mild cheese that holds its shape when cooked.
- Chicken tikka masala – Cubed chicken tikka (marinated and roasted chicken). Provides a meatier texture and flavor.
So paneer masala is a vegetarian curry, while chicken tikka masala contains chicken.
Spice Profile
Both dishes are known for their rich, creamy gravies with tomato, onion, garlic, and ginger. However, the spice blends differ slightly:
Paneer masala
- Coriander
- Cumin
- Garam masala
- Turmeric
- Chili powder
Chicken tikka masala
- Garam masala
- Turmeric
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Paprika
- Chili powder
Paneer masala has a simpler spice blend compared to chicken tikka masala. The paprika in chicken tikka masala gives it a deeper red-orange color.
Heat Level
Chicken tikka masala is usually moderately spicy. Paneer masala spice levels can vary a lot depending on personal preference and region. Some versions are very mild while others can be quite hot and spicy.
Gravy Texture
Both curries finish with cream or coconut milk added to enrich the gravy. However:
- Paneer masala – Tends to have a richer, fattier gravy since paneer cheese contributes its own creamy texture.
- Chicken tikka masala – Leaner gravy, since chicken doesn’t add fats. Can use more cream for a richer gravy.
Accompaniments
Paneer masala and chicken tikka masala are usually served with:
- Steamed basmati rice
- Naan, roti, or other Indian flatbreads
- Onion and lime wedges
- Fresh salad or vegetables
- Raita (yogurt dip) or chutneys
The accompaniments provide contrasts in texture and cool down the spicy curry heat.
Conclusion
While paneer masala and chicken tikka masala have some common elements like tomato-cream gravies and Indian spices, they differ in terms of main ingredients, spice blends, heat levels, and gravy texture. Paneer masala highlights soft paneer cheese in a rich curry, while chicken tikka masala features tender roasted chicken in a leaner tomato gravy. Both are hallmark Indian entrees that are aromatic, complexly flavored, and comforting.
At many Indian restaurants, you can often order paneer masala and chicken tikka masala as part of a meal combo. Trying both is a great way to appreciate the contrasts! Whichever curry you choose, accompany it with cooling raita, sweet mango chutney, warm naan, and steaming basmati rice for a delicious experience of Indian cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is paneer masala the same thing as palak paneer?
No, paneer masala and palak paneer are different dishes. Palak paneer contains spinach as the main ingredient along with paneer cheese. Paneer masala is a tomato-based gravy, while palak paneer is a spinach-based gravy.
What is the difference between tikka masala and butter chicken?
Butter chicken and chicken tikka masala are closely related but slightly different. Butter chicken uses bone-in chicken pieces in a tomato-butter gravy. Chicken tikka masala uses roasted boneless chicken tikka in a tomato-cream gravy. The marinated tikka gives it a more charred flavor.
Is paneer masala suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet?
Paneer masala is vegetarian but not vegan, since it contains paneer cheese. For a vegan paneer masala, tofu or another plant-based substitute could be used instead of paneer.
What meat is used for chicken tikka masala?
Traditionally, chicken tikka masala is made with chunks of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast meat. Boneless chicken ensures tender, easy to eat pieces. Other meats like lamb or shrimp can be used too.
How spicy is paneer masala compared to chicken tikka masala?
Paneer masala can vary more in spice level depending on recipe and personal taste. Chicken tikka masala tends to be moderately spicy. Both can be adjusted to be mild or very spicy based on the quantity of chili powder and other spicing.
Paneer Masala Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb paneer cheese, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (or paprika)
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed (or 14-oz. can diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup cream or coconut milk
- 2 Tbsp butter or oil
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Steps:
- Heat butter/oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger. Sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook 1 minute more.
- Add tomato puree, water, and salt. Simmer 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Add paneer cubes. Gently simmer 5 minutes so paneer can soak up flavors.
- Turn off heat. Stir in cream. Adjust salt and spices as needed.
- Garnish with cilantro. Serve with rice or naan!
Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
For the chicken tikka:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 Tbsp garam masala
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 Tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- Salt to taste
For the masala gravy:
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
- 1/4 cup cream
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Steps:
- Marinate chicken: Mix chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice and all dry spices. Refrigerate 30 min.
- Cook chicken: Grill chicken in oven or pan at 400°F for 10-15 min until cooked through.
- Start gravy: Sauté onions and garlic 5 min. Add ginger and tomato puree. Simmer 10 min.
- Season gravy: Add garam masala, cumin, and chili powder. Stir and simmer 5 min.
- Finish dish: Add grilled chicken and simmer 5 min. Remove from heat and stir in cream. Garnish with cilantro.
Related FAQs
Can you make chicken tikka masala without yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute the yogurt marinade for chicken tikka masala with milk or cream. Add lemon juice or vinegar to curdle the dairy and help the spices coat the chicken.
Is ghee a good substitute for butter in Indian cooking?
Yes, ghee can be seamlessly substituted 1:1 for butter in Indian recipes like paneer masala or chicken tikka masala. Ghee has a higher smoke point so it can be used for sautéing.
What rice goes best with Indian curries?
Basmati rice is the classic choice, for its fluffy texture and ability to soak up curries nicely. Jasmine or long grain rice also pair well. Serve rice alongside curry dishes like paneer or chicken tikka masala.
Can I use regular tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?
Yes, swap around 2-3 fresh tomatoes per 14oz can crushed tomatoes. Cook the fresh tomatoes down into a puree for the masala sauce base.
What do you serve chicken tikka masala with?
Popular sides are basmati rice, naan bread, toasted pappadams, cucumber raita, mango chutney, onion salad, and fresh herbs like mint or cilantro. A cooling salad balances the rich curry.
Summary
In summary, while paneer masala and chicken tikka masala have some similarities in terms of tomato-based masala gravies, they differ in their main protein ingredients as well as some spices used. Paneer masala highlights soft paneer cheese in a rich curry, while chicken tikka masala features succulent roasted chicken pieces in a leaner tomato gravy. Both make for fabulous meals when served with basmati rice, naan bread, and classic accompaniments to provide flavor and texture contrasts. Indian food lovers should absolutely try both dishes to experience the diversity of curries in Indian cuisine!