Chicken Tikka Kebab

Chicken Tikka Kebabs are juicy, flavorful skewers of marinated chicken with yogurt and Indian spices—perfect for the grill, oven, or air fryer. These kebabs are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from summer barbecues to cozy family dinners. Their vibrant flavors and tender texture make them a standout dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The marinade features a blend of spices that infuse the chicken with rich flavors.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create restaurant-quality kebabs at home.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you grill, bake, or air fry, these kebabs turn out delicious every time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings or festive celebrations, they suit all events.
• Healthier Option: Made with lean chicken thighs and yogurt, this dish is packed with protein and flavor without excess fat.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Tikka Kebabs successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smoother cooking process and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Metal skewers: These allow for even cooking and prevent the chicken from falling apart during grilling.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for mixing the marinade thoroughly with the chicken pieces.
• Grill or grill pan: This tool provides the heat needed to achieve that perfect char 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.

Ingredients:
– 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)
• Chopped cilantro

How to Make Chicken Tikka Kebab

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the yogurt, tomato paste, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Whisk until everything is evenly combined.
3. Add all of the spices along with the kosher salt to the bowl.
4. Continue whisking until well incorporated.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add the cubed chicken thighs to the marinade.
2. Stir well to ensure each piece is coated evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 to 4 hours.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge.
2. Thread pieces of chicken onto metal skewers.
3. Alternate with pieces of red onion between each chicken cube.

Step 4: Grill the Kebabs

1. Preheat an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium heat; lightly oil grates.
2. Place kebabs on the grill; cook until they easily release from grates and have solid grill marks (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Rotate kebabs and continue cooking until evenly charred; check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 22 to 25 minutes total).

Step 5: Serve

Garnish your Chicken Tikka Kebabs with chopped cilantro and serve alongside lime wedges and extra yogurt for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Tikka Kebab

Serving Chicken Tikka Kebabs is as delightful as making them. These flavorful skewers can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile dish for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Yogurt Sauce

• Creamy Dip: Serve with a side of Greek yogurt mixed with herbs and spices for a refreshing contrast.
• Mint Chutney: A zesty mint chutney pairs beautifully, adding a vibrant flavor.

On a Bed of Rice

• Basmati Rice: Place the kebabs over fragrant basmati rice for a satisfying meal.
• Pilaf Style: Mix the rice with nuts and raisins for a festive touch.

In Wraps or Rolls

• Naan Wraps: Stuff warm naan with the kebabs, veggies, and sauces for a delicious wrap.
• Pita Pockets: Use pita bread to create quick and tasty sandwiches filled with chicken and salad.

Accompanied by Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad complements the spice of the kebabs.
• Kachumber Salad: This Indian salad made of diced tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers adds crunch.

How to Perfect Chicken Tikka Kebab

To achieve perfectly cooked Chicken Tikka Kebabs, consider these essential tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Marinate Longer: A longer marination time allows the chicken to absorb more flavor from the spices.
• Use Boneless Thighs: Choose boneless skinless chicken thighs for juiciness; they stay moist during cooking.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the kebabs for better searing and grill marks.
• Keep Skewers Greased: Lightly oiling metal skewers prevents sticking and makes flipping easier.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave space between pieces on skewers to ensure even cooking.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tikka Kebab

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Tikka Kebabs can enhance your meal experience. Here’s a list of some excellent options to complement those flavorful skewers.

1. Garlic Naan: Soft Indian bread brushed with garlic butter that’s perfect for dipping into sauces.
2. Cilantro Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with fresh cilantro that balances the spices in the kebabs.
3. Tandoori Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies seasoned with tandoori spices make a colorful side.
4. Raita: A cooling yogurt-based condiment mixed with cucumber and mint that helps temper heat.
5. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, tomatoes, and herbs for added freshness.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and spices that add an enjoyable crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Tikka Kebabs, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Allow at least 1 hour, but ideally 4 hours, for the spices to infuse.

• Using low-quality yogurt: The yogurt acts as a tenderizer. Choose thick, whole milk Greek yogurt for the best results.

• Not preheating your grill: A well-heated grill will help achieve those perfect grill marks. Always preheat for about 10 minutes before cooking.

• Overcrowding the skewers: Leaving space between chicken pieces allows even cooking and better char. Avoid packing them too tightly.

• Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° F ensures food safety and juiciness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Tikka Kebabs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure they cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Chicken Tikka Kebab

• Wrap kebabs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Tikka Kebab

• Oven: Preheat 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 with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Cook kebabs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chicken Tikka Kebab spicier?

You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh chilies to the marinade for extra heat.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts; however, they may be less juicy than thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What sides pair well with Chicken Tikka Kebab?

Serve with naan bread, basmati rice, or a fresh salad to balance flavors and textures.

How long should I marinate Chicken Tikka Kebab?

Marinating for at least 1 hour is essential, but overnight will yield even better flavor and tenderness.

Can I cook these kebabs in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer and cook at 380° F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Tikka Kebabs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different vegetables or spices based on your preference. Whether grilled outdoors or made in an air fryer, these kebabs offer a delightful taste of Indian cuisine that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends!