If you're craving a quick and flavorful meal that captures the essence of Indian cuisine, Trader Joe's Chicken Tikka Masala is a frozen meal worth trying. With a rich, spiced tomato-based sauce and tender chicken served alongside basmati rice, this dish offers a satisfying lunch or dinner option in minutes.
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What is Trader Joe's Chicken Tikka Masala?
Trader Joe's Chicken Tikka Masala is a frozen meal that combines marinated chicken chunks simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, served with a side of basmati rice. This dish aims to replicate the popular Indian dish in a quick, microwaveable form that’s easy to enjoy at home.
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Information
This meal features marinated chicken breast pieces cooked in a tomato-based sauce with spices. Each serving provides about 360 calories, with 21 grams of protein and 14 grams of fat. While it's a convenient option, it's worth noting that it contains 580 mg of sodium, so it's not ideal for those watching their salt intake.
Quick History of Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken Tikka Masala is a dish that has become synonymous with Indian cuisine, but its exact origins are a bit of a mystery and often debated and may surprise you.
One popular theory suggests that Chicken Tikka Masala originated in the UK in the 1960s. According to this story, a Bangladeshi chef in a British curry house created the dish to appease a customer who found the chicken tikka (grilled marinated chicken) too dry. The chef reportedly improvised by adding a creamy tomato sauce to the dish, thus giving birth to what is now known as Chicken Tikka Masala.
Another theory traces its roots back to the Indian subcontinent, where similar dishes, such as "murgh makhani" (butter chicken), were already being made with marinated grilled chicken in a spiced tomato sauce.
Regardless of its exact origin, Chicken Tikka Masala became widely popular in the UK and beyond, often cited as one of Britain’s most beloved dishes. It has come to symbolize a fusion of Indian flavors with Western preferences, particularly due to its mild spice level and creamy texture, making it accessible to a wide range of palates.
How to Cook Trader Joe's Chicken Tikka Masala
This meal is designed for quick preparation:
- Microwave: Heat for 3-4 minutes on high. Stir and ensure it's heated thoroughly before serving.
- Oven: Although the packaging suggests microwaving, some people prefer to reheat this meal in the oven for a crispier texture and richer flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
Below is a quick list of items you can serve with this in order to make it a more hearty meal:
- Naan bread- Soft, pillowy naan is a classic accompaniment to Chicken Tikka Masala. It’s perfect for scooping up the flavorful sauce. Trader Joe’s sells frozen naan that you can quickly heat up for a restaurant-like experience at home.
- Samosas- These crispy, savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, or lentils are a great appetizer or side dish. Trader Joe’s also sells frozen mini samosas that can complement the meal.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables- like cauliflower, carrots, and green beans make for a healthy, light pairing. They add a nice crunch and complement the richness of the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of frequently asked questions about this product
The spice level is mild to medium. It's flavorful with traditional Indian spices, but it won't overwhelm those sensitive to heat.
The portion size is generally considered satisfying for one person, with enough protein and carbs to make it a filling meal. However, larger appetites might want to pair it with a side or additional protein.
Yes, Trader Joe’s offers a variety of Indian-inspired frozen meals, such as Butter Chicken, Paneer Tikka Masala, and Vegetable Biryani.
Conclusion
While this can easily be made from the microwave this comes out as good if not better than some of the Indian Restaurants I've eaten at. This is a perennial favorite and it should be no surprise.
Trader Joe's Chicken Tikka Masala is a great option when you're in the mood for Indian-inspired flavors but short on time. It's not a perfect replica of the restaurant version, but for a frozen meal, it delivers solid taste and convenience at an affordable price. If you're looking for a quick meal fix that’s both filling and flavorful, this is worth keeping stocked in your freezer.
If you've never tried Indian, then this is a really good gateway to trying out this flavorful cuisine. Most of the frozen Indian items I highly recommend.
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Trader Joe's Chicken Tikka Masala review- A quick taste of India
Product Name: Trader Joe's
Product Description: Trader Joe's Chicken Tikka Masala is a frozen entree that takes you on a quick taste of India.
Price: $4.49
Summary
Trader Joe's Chicken Tikka Masala has been on the shelves with little change. After trying it you understand why.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Affordable: Priced at under $5, it’s a budget-friendly option compared to takeout.
- Flavorful: The sauce is rich and spiced, providing a good balance of flavors without overwhelming heat.
- Portion Size: Satisfies hunger with a decent amount of protein and rice.
Cons
- Sodium Content: At 690 mg, it may not be the healthiest option for those watching their sodium intake.
- Rice Texture: The rice can sometimes come out a bit dry or unevenly cooked in the microwave.
theappreciationfactor says
This is my favorite frozen entree at TJs. One option if you like the masala and this portion isn't enough - make your "own" using Masala Simmer Sauce, your own chicken and your own basmati rice.
Trick/Tip I found... while you're only "asked" to head up the sauce, I find that it's even better that after you've cooked the chicken, place in the simmer sauce and cook about 3-5 mins longer - it thickens the sauce and permeates the chicken through. Great reviews