If you’re ready to experience a flavor-packed feast that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, this Chicken Tikka Kebab recipe is your new go-to. Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in creamy yogurt and vibrant spices, then grilled or roasted until perfectly charred and juicy. Each skewer brings together bright colors, tempting aromas, and irresistible taste in every bite. Chicken Tikka Kebab is a true showstopper—ideal for sharing at gatherings, serving on weeknights, or just indulging in your love for Indian cuisine Main Course, Appetizer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I absolutely love about this Chicken Tikka Kebab is how a handful of classic ingredients can transform simple chicken into an unforgettable dish. Each spice and component plays its part, creating those signature layers of savory, tangy, and smoky flavor.
- Chicken breast or thighs (1 ½ pounds): Use thighs for extra juiciness or breast for lighter kebabs—cut into even cubes for uniform cooking.
- Plain yogurt (1 cup): Acts as the tenderizing base for your marinade, ensuring melt-in-your-mouth bites.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the whole dish and helps break down the chicken for even more flavor absorption.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a hint of richness and helps carry the spices into the chicken.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Infuses each morsel with classic aromatic depth.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 tablespoon): Brings a gentle heat and vibrancy that makes the marinade sing.
- Garam masala (2 teaspoons): This beautiful blend of spices gives Chicken Tikka Kebab its signature warmth.
- Ground cumin (2 teaspoons): Adds smoky, earthy undertones that balance out the tangy yogurt.
- Ground coriander (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle citrus note that brightens up the marinade.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): A dash of smokiness and gorgeous red color for visual appeal.
- Turmeric (1 teaspoon): Brings vibrant golden color and gentle earthiness.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adjust to taste for your preferred level of heat—don’t be shy if you love it spicy!
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for drawing out all the complex flavors in the blend.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Thread your marinated chicken onto these to get that classic kebab look—a little extra char on the edges is always welcome.
How to Make Chicken Tikka Kebab
Step 1: Mix the Marinade
Start your Chicken Tikka Kebab adventure by whisking together the yogurt, lemon juice, oil, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and salt in a large bowl. The marinade should look creamy and vibrantly colored—the enticing aroma will tell you you’re on the right track!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add your chicken cubes to the bowl and mix thoroughly, making sure every piece is enveloped in the luscious marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours, or (even better) overnight. This patient step is the secret behind juicy, flavor-packed Chicken Tikka Kebab.
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto each skewer, leaving small spaces between pieces for even cooking and those irresistible crispy edges.
Step 4: Grill or Roast
Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F. For grilling, cook the skewers for 12 to 15 minutes, turning now and then, until the chicken is cooked through and charred in spots. Oven method? Bake on a lined sheet for 18 to 20 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes to achieve that deliciously smoky char.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Let the Chicken Tikka Kebab rest for a couple of minutes before diving in—this helps retain all those lovely juices. Serve hot with naan, fragrant rice, or a cooling chutney, and watch the whole plate disappear fast!
How to Serve Chicken Tikka Kebab
Garnishes
A fresh, colorful garnish elevates the dish. Shower your plate of Chicken Tikka Kebab with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lemon juice, or thinly sliced onions. For an extra burst of flavor, add a little sprinkle of chaat masala or serve lime wedges on the side—these small touches truly brighten every bite.
Side Dishes
Chicken Tikka Kebab pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, pillowy naan, or even a crisp cucumber salad. Raita (a cooling yogurt sauce) or tangy mint chutney are traditional favorites, providing a refreshing balance to the vibrant spices of the kebabs.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving mini Chicken Tikka Kebab skewers as crowd-pleasing party bites, or tuck the juicy cubes into warm flatbread wraps with your favorite veggies and sauces. For a fun twist, build a deconstructed platter with kebab pieces, grilled veggies, and plenty of sauces—perfect for family-style feasts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Tikka Kebab stays flavorful for up to three days in the fridge. Let the kebabs cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container to keep them juicy and fresh for lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
Chicken Tikka Kebab is freezer-friendly! Just cool the cooked kebabs completely, then wrap tightly or store in a zip-top bag for up to two months. Freeze individual portions for easy meal prep or future cravings.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until hot through. For extra moisture, sprinkle a few drops of water over the kebabs before reheating. A quick turn in a hot skillet works, too, if you’re short on time.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Tikka Kebab without a grill?
Absolutely! The recipe is just as delicious when baked in the oven. Broiling at the end helps achieve those signature charred edges, so you won’t miss out on that smoky flavor.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least two hours gives great results, but if you have the time, marinate overnight. The extra time allows the yogurt and spices to fully infuse into the chicken for maximum tenderness and taste.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, you can swap chicken for lamb, beef, or even paneer for a vegetarian take. Just adjust cooking times based on your protein of choice, as different meats require different durations for perfect doneness.
What is the best way to get a smoky flavor?
For real-deal smoky Chicken Tikka Kebab, grill the skewers over open flame if possible. If you’re using an oven, broiling at high heat or basting with melted butter can also add deeper flavor. Some even use a piece of hot charcoal in a bowl inside the oven to infuse extra smokiness!
Is Chicken Tikka Kebab gluten-free?
It is! This recipe is free from gluten, making it perfect for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Just double-check any store-bought sides or garnishes to be sure.
Final Thoughts
If you love bold spices and juicy, satisfying bites, you’ll fall hard for Chicken Tikka Kebab. It’s a showy dish with simple roots, and once you taste the results, you’ll want to make it again and again. Roll up your sleeves, gather your favorite garnishes, and let this recipe turn your kitchen into the best kind of Indian restaurant—your own!
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Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken Tikka Kebab recipe is a flavorful and aromatic Indian dish perfect for grilling or roasting. Tender marinated chicken skewers with a blend of spices, yogurt, and citrus are a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Tikka Kebab:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken cubes and coat well. Marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat and Skewer: Preheat grill or oven to 400°F. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving space between pieces.
- Grill or Roast: Grill kebabs for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, bake in the oven for 18–20 minutes and broil for a charred effect.
- Serve: Serve hot with naan, rice, and chutney.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Adjust chili powder for preferred spice level.
- For a smokier flavor, baste with melted butter during grilling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling, Roasting
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
