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Creamy Dreamy: Garam Masala Kissed Thighs in Tomato Yogurt Sauce

Succulent morsels simmer in a lush, tangy tomato-yogurt gravy, infused with warming spices.

Janelle

By Janelle

Updated: January 18, 2026

Why I Love This Recipe

Indian cuisine is a tapestry woven with threads of history, geography, and tradition. This creamy tomato-based preparation, though perhaps not found in its exact form in any single region, draws inspiration from the rich curries of North India. The yogurt marinade tenderizes the flesh, while the fragrant spices create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. This dish is special because it offers a comforting, deeply flavorful experience without requiring hours of simmering – perfect for a weeknight indulgence.

  • •Silky Smooth Sauce - The yogurt and crushed tomatoes create a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats every piece perfectly.
  • •Tender, Juicy Bites - Marinating beforehand ensures each bite is incredibly moist and tender.
  • •Aromatic Spice Blend - Garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder deliver a complex warmth that's both comforting and exciting.
  • •Quick & Easy Weeknight Meal - Ready in under an hour, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
  • •Balanced Sweet & Savory - The natural sweetness of the tomatoes is beautifully balanced by the tangy yogurt and savory spices.

Ingredients You'll Need

Here's what you'll need – nothing too fancy, just good ingredients that work together beautifully.

  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1/2 cup Plain yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons Ginger-garlic paste (or finely grated ginger and garlic)
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
  • 2 teaspoons Garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon Chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
  • 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
  • 28 oz Canned crushed tomatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    In a bowl, combine the diced flesh with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Ensure that all the pieces are well coated with the marinade. This allows the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.

    ~5 min

    Tip: For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. 2

    Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. The oil should be shimmering, but not smoking, to prevent burning the spices.

    ~2 min

    Tip: A heavy-bottomed pan will help distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching.
  3. 3

    Add the chopped onion to the hot oil and sauté until softened and lightly golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning; the onions release sugars as they cook, which can lead to sticking.

    ~7 min

    Tip: Cooking the onions properly is crucial for developing the base flavor of the curry.
  4. 4

    Add the marinated mixture to the skillet with the sautéed onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned on all sides and the yogurt begins to thicken slightly, about 5-7 minutes. This step helps to seal in the juices and develop a rich flavor.

    ~7 min

    Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
  5. 5

    Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flesh is very tender and the sauce has thickened. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to develop depth.

    ~20 min

    Tip: Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.
  6. 6

    Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, chili powder, or garam masala to your preference. Remember that flavors intensify as the dish cools slightly.

    ~1 min

    Tip: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors at the end, if desired.
  7. 7

    Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken further and the flavors to meld even more.

    ~3 min

    Tip: Skimming off any excess oil from the surface can improve the texture and appearance.
  8. 8

    Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of cream can also add richness.

    ~1 min

    Tip: Other garnishes include thinly sliced ginger or a sprinkle of chopped green chilies.
  9. 9

    Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti for soaking up all that delicious sauce. The starchiness of the rice or bread complements the richness of the curry.

    0
    Tip: A side of raita (yogurt dip) or a simple salad can provide a refreshing contrast.
  10. 10

    Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to confirm the flesh is thoroughly cooked.

    0
    Tip: If you are unsure, cook it longer to be safe.

How Do I Know It's Ready?

The flesh should be fork-tender and easily shredded. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, substitute the meat with paneer (Indian cheese) or chickpeas. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Dreamy: Garam Masala Kissed Thighs in Tomato Yogurt Sauce as much as I do! It's a wonderful dish that's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. If you try this recipe, I'd love to hear how it turned out – feel free to share your experience and any variations you tried!