Grilled Chicken Tikka
Juicy, tender chunks of chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of yogurt and classic Indian spices, then grilled to smoky perfection. A classic appetizer or main course that's bursting with flavor.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- 2
Step 2
TIPUsing thick, hung yogurt is key to a rich marinade that coats the chicken well. - 3
Step 3
- 4
Step 4
TIPSoaking skewers prevents them from burning on the grill. - 5
Step 5
- a.Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- b.Brush the grill with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- c.Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes.
- d.Cook until the chicken is cooked through and has light char marks on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
TIPDon't overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken grills rather than steams. - 6
Step 6
TIPResting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most tender chicken, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator.
- 2Using hung curd (thick yogurt) prevents the marinade from being watery and helps it cling to the chicken.
- 3If you don't have a grill, you can bake the tikka in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- 4A small amount of mustard oil in the marinade gives an authentic, pungent flavor characteristic of traditional tikkas.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace chicken with firm tofu or large chunks of mushrooms and cauliflower. Use a plant-based yogurt for the marinade.
healthyHealthy
Use low-fat yogurt and reduce the oil for grilling to 1 tsp. Air-frying at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes is also a great low-oil cooking method.
quickQuick
If short on time, marinate for just 30 minutes. Pierce the chicken with a fork before marinating to help the flavors penetrate faster.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Reduce the red chili powder to a pinch or skip it entirely for a milder, non-spicy version that kids will love.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is a fantastic source of high-quality lean protein, which is crucial for building and repairing muscles, and keeping you full.
Supports Gut Health
The yogurt used in the marinade is a natural probiotic, which helps promote a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut.
Rich in B-Vitamins
Chicken is a good source of B vitamins like Niacin and B6, which are important for energy metabolism and brain function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Grilled Chicken Tikka is a healthy dish. It is high in lean protein from the chicken, and grilling is a low-fat cooking method. The yogurt marinade also provides probiotics for gut health.