Chicken Tikka Recipe

Indian · Appetizer · 50 min total

Chicken Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer featuring marinated chicken pieces grilled to perfection. This recipe delivers tender, smoky, and flavorful chicken that can be served as a starter or in wraps and salads.

Ingredients

• 500 g boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 3 cm chunks
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for basting)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Preheat grill or oven to 200°C (400°F). If using oven, line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top.
4. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between pieces. Place skewers on the wire rack or directly on grill grates.
5. Grill or bake for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and has charred edges. Baste with melted butter during the last 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with mint chutney and lemon wedges.

Tips

• For extra smoky flavor, you can cook chicken tikka in a tandoor or on a charcoal grill.
• Leftover chicken tikka can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a microwave or oven.
• Serve as an appetizer with onion rings and green chutney, or use in wraps and salads.

More about Chicken Tikka →