Introduction
These Chicken Tikka Kebabs are a classic Indian dish that combines tender, juicy chicken marinated in a rich blend of yogurt and spices. Grilled to perfection, these kebabs are smoky, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether served as a starter, main course, or even stuffed into wraps, they are a crowd-pleaser for all occasions!
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt works best)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (or Kashmiri red chili powder for color)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
For Serving (Optional):
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- Sliced onions and cucumber
- Mint yogurt sauce or chutney
Preparation Tips
- Marinate Overnight: For the most tender and flavorful chicken, marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use Metal or Soaked Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- High Heat for Grilling: Use high heat for grilling to get that perfect char while keeping the chicken juicy.
- Add Veggies: Add bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes to the skewers for extra flavor and a colorful presentation.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, salt, and oil. Mix until smooth.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until all the pieces are well-coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best flavor).
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with vegetables if desired.
Step 4: Cook the Kebabs
Option 1: Grilling
- Preheat a grill or barbecue to medium-high heat. Brush the grill with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
Option 2: Oven Baking
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment paper.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through. For a charred finish, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
Option 3: Stovetop
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil.
- Cook the skewers, turning every 2–3 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Chicken Tikka Kebabs hot, garnished with chopped coriander and lemon wedges.
- Pair with mint yogurt sauce, naan, or rice for a complete meal.
Description
These Chicken Tikka Kebabs are juicy, smoky, and bursting with flavor thanks to the aromatic marinade. The yogurt helps tenderize the chicken, while the blend of Indian spices adds warmth and depth. Perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or even meal prepping, these kebabs are easy to make and sure to impress!
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 210 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Iron: 6%
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these kebabs without skewers?
Yes, you can cook the marinated chicken directly on a grill pan or baking tray without skewers.
2. What if I don’t have all the spices?
You can use store-bought tikka masala spice mix as a substitute for the spices listed in the recipe.
3. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! Freeze the marinated chicken in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
4. How do I make this dish spicier?
Add extra chili powder or freshly chopped green chilies to the marinade for a spicy kick.
5. Can I use chicken with bones?
Yes, bone-in chicken pieces like drumsticks or thighs can be used. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Recommendations
- Pair with Bread: Serve these kebabs with warm naan, pita bread, or parathas for a hearty meal.
- Tikka Wraps: Stuff the grilled kebabs into wraps with lettuce, onions, and a drizzle of mint chutney.
- Charcoal Flavor: To achieve an authentic smoky flavor, place a hot charcoal piece in a small bowl inside the marinated chicken, drizzle oil on the coal, and cover for 10 minutes.
- Side Dish Ideas: Pair the kebabs with a side of cucumber salad, basmati rice, or a cooling yogurt dip.
Conclusion
These Chicken Tikka Kebabs are an easy yet impressive dish packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether grilled, baked, or cooked on the stovetop, they promise juicy, tender bites infused with aromatic spices. Serve them as a starter, main course, or part of a wrap, and enjoy a burst of Indian flavors with every bite!