Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dish that’s bursting with flavor and has that oh-so-perfect balance of smokiness, spice, and tenderness, look no further than this Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe. Trust me, the irresistible aroma alone will draw everyone to the table! Each tender, juicy bite is the result of a perfectly balanced marinade and a gentle kiss of char, making this dish a top pick for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want to treat yourself to classic restaurant-style results at home. You’ll savor every morsel and find yourself craving it again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, everyday ingredients come together in spectacular harmony to create the signature zing and color of authentic chicken tikka kebabs. Each one plays a crucial role—so don’t skip or skimp! Here’s exactly what you need and why:

• Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless pieces cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking and juicy results.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger, grated or minced, delivers a warm, peppery note that perfectly balances the dish.
• Garlic: Mash it to a paste for that sweet, pungent backdrop that makes the flavors pop.
• Salt: Enhances everything and helps draw out moisture to tenderize the chicken.
• Ground Cumin: Brings warmth and earthiness to the marinade—don’t leave it out!
• Kashmiri Chili Powder: This gives our kebabs their signature vibrant color and a subtle heat that’s not overpowering.
• Garam Masala: The ultimate North Indian spice blend for a hauntingly aromatic finish.
• Turmeric: Adds golden color and a hint of bittersweet flavor that balances everything.
• Fresh Coriander: It’s herbal, citrusy, and refreshes the entire marinade; finely chop for best results.
• Lemon Juice: Adds tang, tenderizes the chicken, and helps the flavors meld.
• Cooking Oil: Makes the marinade silky and encourages that classic char during cooking.
• Yoghurt: The secret to tender, melt-in-your-mouth chicken—Greek or full-fat yogurt works best!
• Freshly Chopped Coriander (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a hit of freshness right before serving.

How to Make Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Aromatics

Start by cutting the chicken breast into 2-3cm (about 1 inch) cubes—aim for equal sizes so every piece cooks just right. Finely chop a handful of fresh coriander, and then peel and mash the garlic cloves along with a pinch of salt to really help you form a smooth paste. Peel and grate your ginger. These fresh aromatics are the backbone of that complex, irresistible flavor you expect from an exceptional Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe.

Step 2: Make the Tandoori Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine your grated ginger, garlic paste, and all the spices: salt, cumin, Kashmiri chili powder, garam masala, and turmeric. Add in your chopped coriander for a fresh zing, then squeeze in your lemon juice. Next, blend in the cooking oil and creamy yogurt. Give everything a good mix so it becomes a thick, vibrant orange paste—it should smell mouthwateringly good and look even better!

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken cubes into the bowl with the marinade. Massage the marinade into the chicken so every nook and cranny is coated, then cover and let it rest in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better!). Don’t rush this step—the longer you marinate, the deeper the flavors will infuse, giving you that unmistakable succulence that makes this Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe shine.

Step 4: Skewer the Chicken

If you’re using bamboo skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes, so they don’t burn while grilling. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, packing them closely but not too tight. This helps them cook evenly and capture those charred, crispy edges everyone loves.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

You have options! To grill (broil), preheat your grill to its hottest setting and cook the skewers for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through—aiming for some nice color and char. For the air fryer, spray the basket, cook at 200°C (400°F) for 12-16 minutes, turning once. Oven method? Preheat to 220°C (450°F), set your kebabs on a rack over a tray, and bake for 15-20 minutes. For true barbecue flavor, sear the kebabs over direct BBQ heat for a couple of minutes per side, then finish over indirect heat with the lid closed. No matter the method, check that the chicken reaches 73°C (165°F) inside before serving—juicy, safe, and utterly delicious!

How to Serve Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t be shy with the freshly chopped coriander! A generous sprinkle right before serving brings herbal brightness and color. For extra flair, you can add slivers of red onion, a few wedges of lemon, or even a sprinkle of chaat masala. These little touches highlight the vibrant flavors of your Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe and make every plate look enticing.

Side Dishes

The beauty of this dish is how well it pairs with both traditional and modern sides. I love serving it with fluffy naan, fragrant basmati rice, or a cooling cucumber raita. Add a crisp salad or even some pickled onions to round out the meal. However you serve it, the Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe will always be the star of the show.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual entertaining, skewer the kebabs and serve them in a big platter for sharing. Or, turn the kebabs into wraps with naan or pita, some raita, and fresh veggies. Skewer mini kebabs for party appetizers, or set up a DIY kebab bar with assorted garnishes and sauces so everyone can customize their own plate—perfect for family dinners or summer BBQs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe, allow the kebabs to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—they’ll keep their flavor beautifully and are perfect for meal prepping lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

Chicken tikka kebabs freeze well, making them a fantastic make-ahead option. Place cooled kebabs in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until firm, then move them to a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, ready for a fast and tasty future meal.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen kebabs overnight in the fridge if needed. For best results, warm them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through—this helps preserve the slight crispness on the outside. You can also use an air fryer or give them a quick flash on a hot grill to refresh their flavor and char.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a little richer and juicier, making them an excellent substitute in the Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe. Just cut them into similar-sized cubes and follow the same steps.

Is it okay to marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight is not just okay, it’s highly recommended if you want maximum flavor. Just don’t leave it longer than 24 hours, or the texture may start to break down too much.

How spicy is this Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe?

Thanks to Kashmiri chili powder, it’s more vibrant than fiery, so most people find the spice level quite manageable. If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne, or for milder kebabs just use less chili powder.

Can I make this Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe dairy-free?

Definitely! Simply swap the yogurt for a thick, plant-based option made from coconut or soy to keep everything creamy and flavorful without the dairy.

What’s the best way to get that authentic char?

The secret to that irresistible smoky-charred effect is high heat and a bit of oil in the marinade. If you’re indoors, a quick blast with a kitchen blowtorch after cooking does wonders, or finish under a hot broiler for a few seconds on each side.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Indian cuisine or just dipping your toes into home-style grilling, I promise this Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Go ahead and give it a go—your kitchen will smell amazing, your friends and family will rave, and you’ll wonder why you ever settled for takeout!

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