Grilled Chicken Tikka Skewers
Succulent pieces of chicken breast marinated in a vibrant blend of Greek yogurt and aromatic Indian spices, then grilled to perfection on skewers, offering a healthy and flavorful meal.
For 4 servings
**Prepare Chicken:** Pat the chicken breast cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the marinade adhere better and promotes a desirable char during cooking.
**Make Marinade:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, tandoori masala, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, salt, and mustard oil. Mix vigorously until all ingredients are well combined into a smooth, thick paste.
**Marinate Chicken:** Add the dried chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring every piece is completely coated. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight (up to 24 hours), allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate and tenderize the chicken.
**Prepare Skewers & Grill:** If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning. Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat (around 200°C / 400°F) or preheat your oven to 220°C / 425°F if baking. Lightly oil your grill grates or baking sheet.
**Assemble Skewers:** Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the prepared skewers, alternating with bell pepper and red onion chunks if desired. Ensure not to overcrowd the skewers, leaving a small space between pieces for even cooking.
**Cook Skewers:** * **Grilling:** Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning them every 4-5 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through, lightly charred, and an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) is reached. * **Baking:** Arrange skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. For extra char, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
**Rest & Serve:** Once cooked, remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve hot with extra lemon wedges, mint chutney, or a simple side salad.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Don't Skip Marination Time:** The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful your tikka will be. Aim for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight.
- 2**Pat Chicken Dry:** Excess moisture on the chicken prevents the marinade from sticking properly and inhibits the development of a delicious char or crust during cooking.
- 3**Uniform Cubes:** Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Irregularly sized pieces will cook at different rates.
- 4**Prevent Sticking:** Always lightly oil your grill grates or baking sheet before placing the skewers to prevent the chicken from sticking and tearing.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian Tikka
Substitute chicken with paneer (Indian cheese), firm tofu, large mushrooms, or a mix of colorful vegetables like zucchini and cherry tomatoes. Adjust marination time for paneer (30 mins) and vegetables (15-20 mins).
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
For those who love extra heat, add a finely chopped green chili or an additional half teaspoon of red chili powder to the marinade. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also be used.
Creamy FinishCreamy Finish
For a richer, creamier tikka, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream or a tablespoon of finely ground cashew paste into the marinade before adding the chicken.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Lean Protein
Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, crucial for muscle repair, growth, and maintaining a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.
Boosts Gut Health
Greek yogurt contains beneficial probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for digestion and overall immune function.
Rich in Antioxidants
Spices like turmeric, ginger, and cumin are packed with powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help protect the body against cellular damage.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, absolutely! Arrange the skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 220°C (425°F) for 18-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. For a charred finish, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
