Chicken Tikka
Yogurt-marinated chicken pieces grilled over charcoal until charred and juicy.

The Story
Chicken Tikka is a beloved dish that reflects the rich culinary heritage of South Asia, often enjoyed at family gatherings and celebrations. Its smoky flavor and tantalizing spices make it a favorite appetizer, embodying the warmth and hospitality of Pakistani culture.
Nutrition per Serving
300
Calories
35g
Protein
10g
Carbs
15g
Fat
0g
Fiber
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Begin by cutting the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. This will take about 5 minutes. Set aside.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well until you achieve a smooth marinade, which should take around 3 minutes.
- 3
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and ensure they are fully coated. Use your hands or a spatula to mix thoroughly, making sure each piece is well covered. Let this marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
- 4
While the chicken is marinating, soak the skewers in water for about 20 minutes. This prevents them from burning during cooking. If using metal skewers, this step can be skipped.
- 5
After marination, preheat your grill or oven to a high temperature (around 200°C/400°F). This step should take about 10 minutes. A well-heated grill will give your chicken a nice char.
- 6
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. This should take about 5 minutes. Aim for about 4-5 pieces per skewer.
- 7
Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on it and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Look for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for doneness.
- 8
As the chicken cooks, finely chop the green chilies and fresh coriander leaves. This will add freshness and flavor to your finished dish. This preparation should take around 3 minutes.
- 9
Once the chicken is done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy chicken.
- 10
Serve the Chicken Tikka hot, garnished with chopped green chilies, coriander leaves, and thinly sliced onions. You can also accompany it with mint chutney or yogurt sauce for added flavor.
- 11
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Tikka as a flavorful appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests!
Pro Tips
- •
Use bone-in chicken pieces for more flavor and juiciness.
- •
Let the chicken marinate overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
- •
Preheat your grill or oven to ensure a good sear on the chicken.
- •
Baste the chicken with oil or ghee while cooking to enhance moisture.
Variations
- →
Swap chicken for paneer for a vegetarian option.
- →
Add regional spices like garam masala for a unique twist.
- →
Use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for a creamier marinade.

