Chicken Tikka Masala

INGREDIENTS

1 tbsp

garam masala

2 tsp

ground turmeric

2 tsp

ground cumin

2 tsp

hot paprika or 1 teaspoon cayenne

1 1/2 tsp

kosher salt, plus more for seasoning

1 tsp

ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning

1 1/2 cups

whole-milk yogurt

2 tbsp

fresh lemon or lime juice

large cloves garlic, finely grated

-inch piece of ginger, finely grated

2 lb

boneless, skinless chicken thighs, left whole, or breasts, cut in half lengthwise or in thirds if extra large

2 tbsp

vegetable oil or ghee

large yellow onion, thinly sliced

3 tbsp

tomato paste

1 28 ounce can

whole tomatoes

3/4 cup

heavy cream

1 1/2 cups

coarsely chopped cilantro leaves