Chicken Tikka Masala is a two-stage dish and we treat it that way. The chicken is marinated in yogurt, lemon, ginger, garlic and roasted spices for several hours, threaded onto skewers and cooked in the tandoor until the outside chars and the inside stays juicy. Only then does it go into the masala.
That masala is a browned onion base, tomatoes cooked until the raw edge disappears, ground coriander and cumin, garam masala and a modest amount of cream. The result is thicker and more savoury than a makhani gravy, with a warm medium heat and visible char on every piece of chicken.
What Makes Our Tikka Masala Different
A lot of kitchens shortcut Chicken Tikka Masala by poaching plain chicken directly in sauce. We do not. Skipping the tandoor removes the smoke and the char that give the dish its name, and it is immediately obvious on the plate.
We also keep the spice balance honest: enough chilli and garam masala to taste like a real North Indian curry, not so much that it overwhelms the table. If you want it hotter, say the word and the kitchen will build it up for you.
Ways to Enjoy Chicken Tikka Masala at Dil Tak
Perfect Pairings
- Garlic naan or tandoori roti to mop up the masala
- Jeera rice or plain steamed basmati
- Paneer Tikka for the vegetarians at the table
- A pint or a cocktail from our bar
Good to Know
- Medium heat as standard; mild and hot both available
- Travels well — a top pick for delivery to King West and CityPlace
- Available for dine-in, takeout, delivery and catering
- Open until 11:30 pm, and until 12:30 am Friday and Saturday
Chicken Tikka Masala in Toronto: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Chicken Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken?
Both use tandoori chicken, but Butter Chicken has a smoother, sweeter, cream-and-tomato gravy while Chicken Tikka Masala has a thicker onion-tomato masala with more spice and visible char on the chicken. If you want mild and creamy, choose Butter Chicken; if you want bolder, choose Tikka Masala.
Do you deliver Chicken Tikka Masala in downtown Toronto?
Yes. We deliver across the Financial District, St. Lawrence, Harbourfront, The Esplanade, CityPlace, King West and the surrounding downtown neighbourhoods. You can also order online for pickup at 8 York St.
Can Chicken Tikka Masala be made less spicy?
Absolutely. Ask for mild when you order in the dining room, or leave a note on your online order and the kitchen will dial the chilli back.
