Chicken Masala

This Chicken Masala is a flavorful, plant-based twist on the classic Indian dish, perfect for those seeking a hearty meal. It combines tender vegan chicken pieces with a rich, spiced tomato-based sauce, infused with fragrant Indian spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with rice or warm naan.

What is Chicken Masala?

Chicken Masala, particularly Chicken Tikka Masala, is a popular dish with origins that blend Indian and British culinary influences.

While the exact history is debated, it’s widely believed that the dish was created in the UK by Indian chefs to cater to British tastes, combining marinated, grilled chicken with a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. It draws on traditional Indian cooking techniques, like the use of a tandoor (clay oven) for grilling chicken, and incorporates a blend of spices such as garam masala, which gives the dish its distinctive, rich flavor.

Today, it’s a beloved dish worldwide, found in restaurants and homes alike, often adapted to various dietary preferences, including vegan versions.

What are good vegan substitutes for chicken?

There are several excellent vegan substitutes for chicken, each offering a different texture and flavor profile:

A versatile option, tofu absorbs the flavors of marinades and sauces well. Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for replicating chicken’s texture.

Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh has a firm, chewy texture and a nutty flavor that works well in savory dishes like chicken masala.

Often called “wheat meat,” seitan is a high-protein substitute made from gluten. It has a meat-like texture and works well in recipes that call for a heartier bite.

Many brands offer ready-made vegan chicken products that closely mimic the taste and texture of real chicken.

Jackfruit has a stringy, shredded texture similar to pulled chicken when cooked, making it a popular substitute for shredded chicken dishes.

These alternatives provide a range of flavors and textures suitable for vegan versions of traditional chicken recipes.

What ingredients go into this Chicken Masala?

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you mentioned and their roles in vegan cooking, particularly for a dish like Vegan Chicken Masala:

Plant-based chicken is the vegan substitute for traditional chicken, made from ingredients like soy, pea protein, or wheat gluten (seitan). It mimics the texture and flavor of chicken, providing protein and a satisfying bite to the dish.

Dairy-free yogurt is a plant-based alternative made from soy, almond, or coconut milk, it is used to marinate or add creaminess to the sauce. The yogurt’s tang balances the spices and creates a rich texture in the masala.

A blend of ground spices, garam masala is essential to Indian cuisine. It typically includes cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, providing warmth, depth, and complexity to the dish’s flavor.

Cumin is an earthy, aromatic spice adds a slightly nutty and smoky flavor. In masala, it enhances the savory notes and pairs well with other spices, creating a well-rounded taste.

Used for heat and spiciness, chili powder gives the dish its kick. It can vary in intensity, so it’s added to taste, helping balance the richness of the sauce with its warmth.

Onions are sautéed as a base for the masala sauce, adding natural sweetness and depth. They help build a flavorful foundation when cooked until golden and soft.

Known for its pungent aroma and savory taste, garlic is a crucial ingredient in Indian cooking. It adds sharpness and layers of flavor to the masala, complementing the spices.

A touch of brown sugar provides sweetness, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and the heat of the spices. It helps create a harmonious flavor profile, offering a slight caramel undertone.

Tomato sauce forms the base of the masala, giving it body and a rich, tangy flavor. Tomatoes add acidity, sweetness, and vibrant color, creating the sauce’s smooth texture.

Typically made from almond, soy, or coconut, non-dairy creamer adds creaminess to the masala without using traditional dairy. It rounds out the sauce, making it silky and rich while keeping the dish vegan-friendly.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing the flavors, textures, and richness in vegan chicken masala, resulting in a dish that’s aromatic, creamy, and satisfying.

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​How to make Chicken Masala?

For the preparation of Chicken Masala, first marinate vegan chicken bits. Combine them in a large bowl with the dairy-free yoghurt, Garam Masala, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Let the chicken bits marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Heat oil in a pan. When hot, add chopped onions. Fry them on medium to high heat for 3-4 minutes. 

Then add the marinated chicken to the onions in the pan and continue frying for another 4 minutes.

Next, add pressed garlic, cumin, garam masala, brown sugar, tomato sauce, chili powder, and non-dairy creamer. 

Combine everything well and let simmer for another 5 minutes on medium to low heat. 

Season with salt and black pepper to taste and enjoy.

How to serve Chicken Masala?

For serving vegan chicken masala, you can pair it with a variety of sides and accompaniments that complement its rich, spiced sauce:

1. Fluffy basmati rice is a classic choice. The fragrant, long-grain rice absorbs the flavorful sauce, making it a perfect pairing.
2. Serve with warm, soft naan or whole wheat roti to scoop up the creamy masala. You can find or make vegan versions of these flatbreads.
3. Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and freshness to balance the richness of the sauce.
4. A dairy-free cucumber raita (made with dairy-free yogurt) provides a cooling, tangy contrast to the spicy masala.
5. Pickled Vegetables: Indian pickles or quick-pickled onions add a zesty, sharp flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy dish.
6. Serve a side of simple lentils or dal for extra protein and an additional layer of flavor.

These sides will enhance the flavors of the vegan chicken masala and provide a balanced, satisfying meal.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftovers from vegan chicken masala can be easily stored and repurposed for future meals. Here are a few options for what to do with them:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or non-dairy milk to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.

Use the leftovers to make wraps with flatbreads or tortillas, adding fresh veggies like lettuce, cucumber, or spinach. You can also make a masala sandwich by stuffing the filling between slices of toasted bread.

Serve the reheated vegan chicken masala over freshly cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous. Add extra vegetables or a drizzle of lemon for freshness.

Toss the masala with cooked pasta, adding a bit more non-dairy creamer for a creamier sauce. It’s a unique fusion of Indian flavors with pasta.

Other recipes to try

• Chickpea Tikka Masala
• Tikka Masala Sauce
• Chana Masala
• Easy Mushroom Curry Recipe with Garam Masala [vegan]

I hope you enjoyed making and savoring this delicious Vegan Chicken Masala!

If you loved the flavors as much as I do, I’d love to hear your thoughts—please leave a comment and a star rating below.

Don’t forget to share your mouthwatering creations on Instagram or Facebook, and tag me so I can see your amazing dish. Happy cooking!