Chicken Tikka Skewers Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Tikka Skewers offer a flavorful and vibrant take on the classic chicken tikka. Marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and yogurt, these skewers are char-grilled to perfection, offering a smoky, spicy taste that is balanced by the creaminess of the yogurt. Whether you’re serving them at a summer barbecue, family gathering, or as an appetizer at a dinner party, Chicken Tikka Skewers will be a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe walks you through the steps of creating these mouthwatering skewers, provides tips to achieve the perfect flavor and texture, and suggests fun variations for making them even more exciting. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful marinade, and smoky char will make these skewers a favorite addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Tikka Skewers

• Bold, Spicy Flavors: With a blend of traditional Indian spices such as garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and coriander, these skewers are packed with deep, warm flavors. The tangy yogurt marinade ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender while absorbing the rich spices.
• Grilled Perfection: The grilling process adds a smoky char, enhancing the flavor and texture of the chicken. The result is tender, juicy, and slightly crispy bites that are perfect for dipping into chutneys or your favorite sauce.
• Simple Ingredients: Chicken Tikka Skewers are made with easy-to-find ingredients, including chicken breasts, yogurt, and a variety of spices, making it simple to whip up a flavorful meal even on a busy weeknight.
• Versatile: These skewers work as a main dish, appetizer, or snack. Whether you’re serving them as part of a complete meal or just as a quick snack for a gathering, they can be enjoyed with various dips, side dishes, or naan bread.
• Healthy and Delicious: By grilling the chicken rather than frying it, Chicken Tikka Skewers provide a healthier alternative while still delivering all the bold, savory flavors.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including marinating time)
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings (6-8 skewers)
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 5-7g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tikka Marinade:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 cup plain full-fat yogurt (Greek yogurt works well)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for color)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm flavor)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust based on heat preference)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Grilling:

• Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water if using wooden skewers)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
• Chutney or yogurt dip for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Marinade

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs ensures the pieces remain tender and easy to eat. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, vegetable oil or ghee, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, ground cinnamon (if using), chili powder, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, well-blended marinade.

Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are fully coated. The yogurt helps tenderize the chicken while the spices infuse it with rich flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours for the best results. If you have the time, marinating the chicken overnight will result in even more flavor.

2. Preheat the Grill or Oven

While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-200°C). If you’re using an oven instead of a grill, preheat it to 400°F (200°C) and place an oven-safe rack on a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the skewers.

3. Prepare the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20-30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling. If using metal skewers, there’s no need for soaking.

Once the chicken has marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers. Be sure not to overcrowd the skewers—leaving a little space between each piece will allow the chicken to cook more evenly and develop a nice char.

4. Grill the Chicken Tikka Skewers

Place the skewers on the preheated grill, making sure they are not touching each other. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. The chicken should develop a slight char and crisp on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.

If you’re using an oven, bake the skewers on the oven-safe rack for about 15-20 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be golden brown with a slight char on the edges.

5. Serve the Chicken Tikka Skewers

Once the skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill or oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty, fresh touch.

These skewers are perfect with a side of warm naan bread, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a cooling yogurt dip or tangy chutney for added flavor.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Tikka Skewers

• Use Bone-In Chicken for More Flavor: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well, using bone-in chicken pieces can add even more flavor and juiciness. If using bone-in pieces, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 1 hour, but marinating overnight will result in the most tender and flavorful chicken.
• Grill Over Medium-High Heat: If the heat is too high, the chicken may burn on the outside before it cooks through. Medium-high heat allows the chicken to cook evenly and develop the perfect amount of char.
• Baste with Ghee or Butter: For an extra layer of flavor, baste the chicken with ghee or melted butter halfway through grilling. This adds richness and enhances the smoky taste.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder or chili flakes in the marinade to suit your heat preference. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether.
• Serve with a Side of Raita: A simple cucumber raita (yogurt with cucumber, garlic, mint, and spices) is a great side dish that complements the heat of the Chicken Tikka Skewers and adds a refreshing contrast.

Variations of Chicken Tikka Skewers

• Paneer Tikka Skewers: For a vegetarian twist, swap out the chicken for paneer (Indian cottage cheese). Paneer absorbs the marinade wonderfully and has a great texture when grilled.
• Lemon Herb Chicken Tikka Skewers: Add fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and mint to the marinade, along with an extra squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, citrusy version of this dish.
• Spicy Mango Chicken Tikka Skewers: Incorporate mango puree or mango chutney into the marinade for a sweet and spicy version that pairs perfectly with the smoky chicken.
• Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers: To give the chicken a more authentic tandoori flavor, add a couple of tablespoons of tandoori masala to the marinade, along with a few drops of red food coloring to achieve the signature vibrant red color.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken Tikka Skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. After cooking, let the skewers cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To freeze the skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Tikka Skewers

• Naan or Paratha: Serve the chicken skewers with warm naan or paratha bread for a traditional and satisfying meal.
• Rice Pilaf or Biryani: A fragrant rice pilaf or spiced biryani complements the bold flavors of the chicken and makes for a complete meal.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with yogurt and mint offers a cool, crunchy contrast to the spiced chicken.
• Chutney: Serve the skewers with your favorite chutney—mango chutney, mint chutney, or tamarind chutney are all excellent choices.

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Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Skewers bring vibrant, smoky flavors to your table with their tender, marinated chicken and a perfect balance of spices. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main course, or snack, these skewers are sure to be a hit with everyone. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic dish that will have your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy the irresistible flavors of Chicken Tikka Skewers as part of your next meal or gathering!