Chicken Tikka Kebab

Chicken Tikka Kebabs are a delightful way to enjoy succulent pieces of marinated chicken infused with aromatic Indian spices. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a lively barbecue, these kebabs offer a burst of flavor that appeals to everyone. Their juicy texture and vibrant taste make them an unforgettable addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these delicious kebabs quickly.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of yogurt and spices creates a rich marinade that makes every bite flavorful and tender.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer grilling, baking, or air frying, Chicken Tikka Kebabs adapt beautifully to your cooking style.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, these kebabs impress any crowd.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and flavorful spices, these kebabs are a nutritious choice for your meals.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Chicken Tikka Kebabs easy and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Metal skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Grill or grill pan
• Whisk
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Metal skewers: These are reusable and conduct heat well, ensuring even cooking of the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for thoroughly mixing the marinade and coating the chicken evenly.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides high heat necessary for achieving those perfect char marks on your kebabs.

Ingredients

Chicken Tikka Kebabs are juicy, flavorful skewers of marinated chicken with yogurt and Indian spices—perfect for the grill, oven, or air fryer.

• ⅓ cup whole milk greek yogurt (plus more for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger or ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 large red onion (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• Lime wedges (or lemon, for garnish)
• Chopped cilantro (for garnish)

For Garnish

• Lime wedges (or lemon, for garnish)
• Chopped cilantro (for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Tikka Kebab

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Add the yogurt, tomato paste, olive oil, garlic, and ginger to a large mixing bowl.
2. Whisk until evenly combined.
3. Add all of the spices and kosher salt to the bowl; whisk again until incorporated.
4. Stir in the chicken pieces until they are fully coated in the marinade.
5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 4 hours.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

1. Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge.
2. Thread chicken pieces onto metal skewers alternating with chunks of red onion between each piece of chicken.

Step 3: Grill the Kebabs

1. Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium heat; lightly oil the grates.
2. Place the assembled skewers on the grill.
3. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until they release easily from the grates with nice grill marks.
4. Rotate them and continue cooking until evenly charred and internal temperature reaches 165° F (approximately 22 to 25 minutes total).

Step 4: Serve Your Kebabs

1. Remove from grill once cooked through.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side along with extra yogurt for dipping.

Enjoy your tasty Chicken Tikka Kebabs as part of a delightful meal!

How to Serve Chicken Tikka Kebab

Chicken Tikka Kebabs are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your dining experience, these serving suggestions will enhance the flavors of your kebabs.

With Fresh Salad

• Cucumber Mint Salad: A refreshing mix of diced cucumbers, fresh mint, and a squeeze of lime.
• Kachumber Salad: A blend of chopped tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers tossed with lemon juice and spices for an extra kick.

In a Wrap

• Naan Wrap: Place Chicken Tikka Kebabs in warm naan with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce for a delicious wrap.
• Pita Pockets: Fill pita bread with kebabs and add sliced veggies for a perfect on-the-go meal.

Accompanied by Dips

• Mint Chutney: A zesty dip made from fresh mint, cilantro, and spices that complements the chicken’s flavor.
• Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy yogurt mixed with cucumber and garlic offers a cooling contrast to the spicy kebabs.

How to Perfect Chicken Tikka Kebab

To ensure your Chicken Tikka Kebabs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Thoroughly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1-4 hours. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Boneless Thighs: Choosing boneless skinless chicken thighs keeps the kebabs juicy during cooking.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is properly preheated to medium heat. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Rotate Regularly: Turn the skewers frequently while grilling for even cooking and a nice char on all sides.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165° F for safe consumption.
• Garnish Generously: Finish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an added burst of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tikka Kebab

Pairing your Chicken Tikka Kebabs with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

1. Basmati Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with spices is an ideal base that absorbs flavors from the kebabs.
2. Raita: A cool yogurt-based side dish mixed with cucumber and spices provides balance against the spice of the kebabs.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Assorted seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini grilled alongside kebabs add color and nutrition.
4. Spicy Chickpeas: Crunchy chickpeas seasoned with spices make a great crunchy side that pairs well with the kebab’s softness.
5. Indian Flatbreads (Roti): Soft roti or chapati is perfect for wrapping around pieces of chicken.
6. Pickled Onions: Tangy pickled onions add brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Tikka Kebabs can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Too Little Marinade: A common mistake is not using enough marinade. Make sure to coat the chicken pieces fully for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the Refrigeration Step: Don’t skip refrigerating the marinated chicken. Letting it sit for at least 1 hour allows the spices to penetrate the meat.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Avoid overcrowding your skewers with too much chicken. Leave some space between pieces for even cooking and better char.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can result in uneven cooking. Always allow your grill to reach medium heat before adding the kebabs.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature can lead to undercooked or dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Chicken Tikka Kebabs in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Tikka Kebab

• Freeze uncooked marinated chicken kebabs in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Tikka Kebab

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place kebabs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and cook kebabs for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Tikka Kebab?

Chicken Tikka Kebab is a popular Indian dish made from marinated chunks of chicken, skewered and grilled until juicy and flavorful.

How do I make Chicken Tikka Kebab more spicy?

To increase the spice level, add more cayenne pepper or include additional spices like red chili powder in your marinade.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with lamb, beef, or even vegetables if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.

What can I serve with Chicken Tikka Kebab?

These kebabs pair wonderfully with naan bread, rice, or a fresh salad. They also go well with various dipping sauces like mint chutney.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Tikka Kebabs are not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different spices or marinades based on your taste preferences. Try making this recipe at home for a fantastic meal that will impress family and friends!