Meal Prep · North Indian
Chicken Tikka
Savor the iconic smoky and spicy flavors of this classic North Indian chicken dish, perfect for grilling or baking.
Ingredients
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Step-by-step- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, black pepper, and salt.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight, for best flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your grill for medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. Brush lightly with mustard or vegetable oil.
- Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and has charred spots. If baking, place skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked and slightly browned. For extra char, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with lemon wedges, naan, or rice.
Nutrition
Per serving| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 45 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
Storage & Freezer Guide
Make it last Refrigerator 3-4 days
Store cooked Chicken Tikka in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure it cools completely before storing.
Freezer Up to 2 months
Freeze cooked chicken tikka in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat Stovetop/Microwave/Oven
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth, in the microwave until warm, or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Chef’s Corner
- For the best texture, use full-fat Greek yogurt, which is thicker and prevents the marinade from thinning out, ensuring it clings well to the chicken.
- Don’t skip the marination time! The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be. Overnight is ideal.
- To achieve an authentic smoky flavor without a grill, you can use a small piece of charcoal (burnt in an open flame) in a small bowl placed within the chicken bowl, then cover tightly for 5-10 minutes (dum method).
