Chicken Tikka is a flavorful and aromatic Indian dish made from marinated chicken pieces that are cooked to perfection, often skewered and grilled or roasted. The marinade is the key to its vibrant flavor, combining a mixture of yogurt, spices, and herbs to infuse the chicken with rich, tangy, and smoky flavors. This dish is a popular choice for both casual meals and special occasions, and it can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger Indian feast.
The process of making Chicken Tikka begins with marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. This marinade tenderizes the chicken while adding deep, complex flavors. The yogurt not only acts as a tenderizer but also helps the spices adhere to the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. After marinating for a few hours (or even overnight for the best results), the chicken is cooked until golden brown and slightly charred, typically on skewers in a tandoor or oven.
Traditionally, Chicken Tikka is served as an appetizer or snack with naan bread or rice. It is often accompanied by cooling raita (yogurt sauce), fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. The smoky, spiced chicken pairs beautifully with the fresh, tangy raita, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
For those who prefer a lighter option, Chicken Tikka can be served on a salad or as part of a wrap with vegetables and a drizzle of dressing. This versatility makes it a popular choice for meal prepping, as it can be used in various dishes throughout the week.
Chicken Tikka is a crowd-pleasing dish thatās easy to make yet full of depth and complexity. Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into other meals, itās a comforting and flavorful option thatās sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 250 grams chicken breast boneless, cut into cubes
- 100 grams yogurt plain
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh
- to taste salt
- as needed oil for grilling
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, lemon juice, and salt.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat a grill or oven to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or baking sheet.
- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.
- Remove from grill and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges, onion rings, and naan or rice.
Nutrition
Yummm! The kids loved it, even my picky eater! Will make again.
Did it rain here? because my grill didnāt work at all!
This seems like a lot of work for chicken. Donāt you just buy it pre-marinated?
Aināt nobody got time for all that! Just grab it at the store, itās way easier.
I get what you mean, but trust me, homemade is way better! Pre-marinated chicken just doesnāt have that fresh taste. š
I followed the recipe but my chicken turned out dry. What did I do wrong? š
Maybe it was overcooked? That happens a lot with chicken.
I dunno, Iām just a bad cook too. Chicken is tough for me sometimes.
Is the yogurt really necessary? I donāt like yogurt but can I replace it with something else?
I think the yogurt is important for flavor and tenderness. Maybe just give it a try?
You can use buttermilk or even coconut milk as a substitute! Just make sure to get that tangy flavor.
Very easy recipe! Wish I had more time to marinate it longer, but it was still good.
I donāt think chicken tikka needs so many spices. Maybe just some salt and pepper is enough?
Tastes great! But why you marinate overnight? Seems like too much work.
Yum! This was a hit at our BBQ. Everyone asked for the recipe!
Kinda shocked it turned out as good as it did! Never grilled chicken before.
chicken tikka is my fav food ever!! So glad I found this!
Chicken too dry for me. Next time Iāll add more yogurt, I guess.
Not bad, but I think it needs more lemon maybe? Idkā¦
I donāt cook much but this seemed easy! Just wish someone else could grill for me.
I totally get you! Grilling can be tough. Maybe ask a friend to help out? This recipe looks easy enough to try though! š
This is totally not an authentic Chicken Tikka. You forgot the spices!
This recipe is AMAZING! So flavorful and tender. My family loved it!
This Chicken Tikka was awesome! So juicy and flavorful. Definitely a keeper!
I totally agree! This Chicken Tikka recipe is my go-to now! So easy and delish!
Sounds great but I donāt think chicken should be marinated overnight. Isnāt that too long?
I was skeptical about marinating for so long, but I did it overnight and woah!
I know right! Marinating really makes a difference. I usually do it for at least 8 hours too!
Really? Over night? I thought it would be too much. Did it really change the flavor that much?