Chicken Tikka Skewers Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Tikka Skewers bring the irresistible flavors of traditional Indian cuisine into a fun and portable form. These skewers are packed with juicy chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, yogurt, and fresh herbs, then grilled or baked to perfection. The result is tender, flavorful chicken with a smoky char, making these skewers perfect for a party appetizer, dinner, or outdoor grilling sessions.

Chicken Tikka, a popular dish in Indian cuisine, is known for its deliciously spiced marinated chicken, often served with naan or rice. By transforming this dish into skewers, you can enjoy the bold flavors in a quick and easy format. These skewers are versatile and can be served as part of a larger meal, or as a standout appetizer at any gathering. Whether you’re new to Indian flavors or an experienced cook, Chicken Tikka Skewers are a delicious and fun dish to prepare.

This recipe walks you through all the necessary steps to create these mouthwatering skewers, from marinating the chicken to grilling or baking it to perfection. Plus, you’ll find tips for customization and pairing suggestions to elevate your meal.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Tikka Skewers

• Bold and Flavorful: The rich blend of spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors, while the yogurt marinade makes the chicken incredibly tender and juicy.
• Easy to Make: The marinade does most of the work, and once the chicken is ready, it only takes a few minutes to cook on the grill or in the oven.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or serving appetizers at a party, Chicken Tikka Skewers are perfect for any event.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spices to suit your preferences, add vegetables to the skewers, or even substitute the chicken with other proteins like paneer or shrimp.
• Healthier Option: Grilling or baking the chicken instead of frying makes these skewers a lighter, healthier choice without compromising on flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marination time)
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on grilling or baking method)
• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings (depending on portion size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 200-250 calories per serving, depending on the size of the skewers and the exact ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200-250 kcal
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 5-6g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka Skewers:

• 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt works best)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust based on spice preference)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or mint for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving

For the Vegetables (Optional, for skewers):

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 zucchini, cut into thick slices
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into 1-inch cubes. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result, or chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Both cuts will work well for this recipe.

Place the chicken cubes in a large bowl, and set aside while you prepare the marinade.

2. Make the Marinade

In a separate bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. These ingredients form the base of the marinade, giving the chicken a rich, tangy, and aromatic flavor.

To the yogurt mixture, add the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, cinnamon, and salt and pepper to taste. The spices create the signature flavor of Chicken Tikka, and the yogurt helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring that it stays juicy and flavorful after cooking.

Whisk the marinade ingredients together until fully combined and smooth.

3. Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss until each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. Marinating the chicken for longer allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply, but even 1 hour will result in flavorful chicken.

4. Prepare the Vegetables (Optional)

If you’re adding vegetables to the skewers, now is the time to prepare them. Cut the red onion, bell pepper, and zucchini into large chunks. Place them in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. These vegetables will add color and texture to the skewers, complementing the spiced chicken.

5. Preheat the Grill or Oven

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C), or if you’re baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using an outdoor grill, make sure to oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.

If using skewers, ensure they are either metal or wooden (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning).

6. Assemble the Skewers

Once the chicken is properly marinated, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, alternating with the prepared vegetables if using. For an attractive presentation, aim for a mix of chicken and veggies on each skewer. This also helps the chicken cook evenly, as the vegetables can provide moisture.

If you prefer to cook the chicken without vegetables, you can simply thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers and skip this step.

7. Cook the Chicken Tikka Skewers

• Grilling: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be slightly charred on the outside, with a tender and juicy interior.
• Oven-Baking: If you prefer to bake the chicken, place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the edges are slightly crisp. You can also broil the skewers for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a charred effect similar to grilling.

Be sure to monitor the chicken closely while it cooks to avoid overcooking, which can make it dry.

8. Serve the Chicken Tikka Skewers

Once the skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill or oven and allow them to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or mint for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the Chicken Tikka Skewers with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of tangy freshness.

These skewers can be enjoyed on their own, or served with naan, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Tikka Skewers

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: The longer you marinate the chicken, the better the flavors will be absorbed. Aim for at least 1 hour, but marinating overnight will yield the most flavorful results.
• Adjust Spice Levels: The level of spiciness in this recipe can be adjusted by adding more or less chili powder. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely. On the other hand, if you love heat, you can add extra chili powder or even fresh chopped chilies.
• Use Bone-in Chicken for More Flavor: For even juicier chicken, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks, which retain moisture better than boneless cuts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Add Vegetables: Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini make a wonderful complement to the chicken. They add texture and flavor while also helping to balance out the richness of the chicken.
• Cooking Tips for Juicy Chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry. Keep an eye on the chicken while grilling or baking, and check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Skewer Alternatives: If you don’t have skewers, you can cook the marinated chicken and vegetables in a grill pan or roasting pan for a similar result.

Variations of Chicken Tikka Skewers

• Paneer Tikka Skewers: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese). The paneer will absorb the marinade and grill beautifully for a delicious alternative.
• Shrimp Tikka Skewers: Swap the chicken for shrimp for a lighter option. Shrimp will cook quickly, so be sure to watch them closely to prevent overcooking.
• Vegetable Tikka Skewers: For a fully vegetarian skewer, you can use a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, and potatoes. The marinade will enhance the vegetables, and they’ll grill to tender perfection.
• Spicy Chicken Tikka Skewers: Increase the level of spice by adding more chili powder, fresh green chilies, or even a teaspoon of hot sauce to the marinade.

Storage and Shelf Life

• Refrigeration: Leftover Chicken Tikka Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Simply assemble the skewers and place them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and follow the cooking instructions.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Tikka Skewers

• Naan: Serve the skewers with warm naan bread for a traditional and satisfying Indian meal. The naan is perfect for soaking up any extra marinade or sauce.
• Rice: A side of fragrant basmati rice or a vegetable pula o complements the skewers perfectly.
• Raita: Cool down the spiciness with a refreshing cucumber raita, a yogurt-based side dish with cucumber, mint, and spices.
• Salad: A crisp salad with fresh vegetables, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lime will add a light, refreshing contrast to the spiced chicken.
• Chutney: Serve with a tangy mint chutney or tamarind chutney for an extra burst of flavor.

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Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Skewers are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine into a fun and portable form. The tender chicken, infused with a rich yogurt and spice marinade, becomes wonderfully charred and juicy after grilling or baking. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, grilling outdoors, or just looking for a tasty weeknight meal, these skewers are sure to impress. With endless possibilities for customization, you can make them your own, adjusting the spices and adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. So fire up the grill, or preheat your oven, and enjoy these irresistible Chicken Tikka Skewers!