Easy Paneer Tikka Skewers
These Easy Paneer Tikka Skewers feature succulent cubes of paneer and vibrant vegetables marinated in a rich, spiced yogurt, then grilled or baked to perfection with a delightful char. They make for a fantastic high-protein appetizer or a light, flavorful meal.
For 3 servings
Prepare the Paneer and Vegetables: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Cut the paneer into 1-inch cubes. Cut the bell pepper and onion into similar-sized 1-inch chunks, separating the onion layers.
Make the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, fresh lemon juice, tandoori masala, salt, mustard oil, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and crushed Kasuri Methi. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, well-combined paste.
Marinate the Ingredients: Add the paneer cubes, bell pepper chunks, and onion chunks to the marinade. Gently toss everything until all pieces are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, ideally 2-4 hours, or even overnight for deeper flavor.
Preheat and Skewer: Preheat your cooking equipment: a grill to medium-high heat, an oven to 200°C (400°F), or a large non-stick pan/grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated paneer and vegetables alternately onto the soaked wooden or metal skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Cook the Skewers (Choose one method):
Grill: Place skewers directly on the preheated grill. Cook for 8-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until the paneer is lightly charred and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Brush with a little extra oil if they look dry.
Oven: Arrange skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly charred. For extra char, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Pan-fry: Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large non-stick pan or grill pan. Place skewers in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning until all sides are golden brown and the paneer is cooked through.
Serve: Carefully remove the cooked skewers from the heat. Let them rest for a minute. Serve hot with a side of fresh mint chutney and an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcrowd Skewers: Leave a little space between the paneer and vegetable pieces on the skewer. This allows for better air circulation and more even cooking and charring.
- 2Marinate Longer for Flavor: While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating for 2-4 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator significantly enhances the flavor and tenderness of the paneer.
- 3Soak Wooden Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading. This prevents them from burning during grilling or baking.
- 4Achieve the Perfect Char: Whether grilling or baking, aim for some slightly blackened spots on the paneer and vegetables. This char adds a crucial smoky flavor that is characteristic of tikka.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Swap
Experiment with other quick-cooking vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple chunks for a touch of sweetness.
Protein AlternativeProtein Alternative
For a non-vegetarian option, chicken breast or thigh pieces can be used instead of paneer, following the same marination and cooking process, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Air Fryer MethodAir Fryer Method
For a quick and easy cooking method, arrange the skewers in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High Protein Content
Paneer is an excellent source of vegetarian protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety, making this dish very filling.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The bell peppers and onions contribute essential vitamins like Vitamin C and various antioxidants, while paneer provides calcium for bone health.
Gut-Friendly Probiotics
The Greek yogurt in the marinade contains beneficial probiotics, which can support a healthy digestive system and improve gut flora.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can marinate the paneer and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Threading onto skewers can also be done a few hours before cooking.
