Chicken Tikka Kebab

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold and aromatic spices
• Juicy and tender chicken
• Perfect for grilling, baking, or air frying
• Great for gatherings and family meals
• High in protein and flavorful
• Pairs well with many sides and sauces

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless chicken pieces
• Plain yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Garam masala
• Paprika or Kashmiri chili powder
• Turmeric
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Oil
• Fresh cilantro
• Skewers

Directions

1. Cut the chicken into evenly sized bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, oil, and all the spices.
3. Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly in the marinade.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least a few hours or overnight for best flavor.
5. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
6. Preheat the grill, oven, or air fryer.
7. Cook the chicken kebabs until fully cooked and lightly charred, turning occasionally for even cooking.
8. Brush lightly with oil or butter during cooking if desired.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Add bell peppers and onions to the skewers.
• Use chicken thighs for extra juicy kebabs.
• Make it spicier with green chilies or extra chili powder.
• Add cream for a richer marinade.
• Use paneer instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
• Serve with mint chutney or garlic sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken tikka kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven, air fryer, or skillet until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What is chicken tikka kebab?

It is marinated chicken cooked on skewers with Indian spices and herbs.

Can I cook chicken tikka kebabs without a grill?

Yes, they can be baked in the oven or cooked in an air fryer.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 2 hours is recommended, but overnight gives the best flavor.

What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless chicken thighs or breasts both work well.

Is chicken tikka kebab spicy?

It can be mild or spicy depending on the amount of chili used.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, marinated chicken freezes very well before cooking.

What sauces go well with chicken tikka kebab?

Mint chutney, yogurt sauce, or garlic sauce pair wonderfully.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Avoid overcooking and use yogurt in the marinade.

Can I use wooden skewers?

Yes, soak them in water first to prevent burning.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Rice, naan, salad, grilled vegetables, or roasted potatoes all pair nicely.

Conclusion

Chicken Tikka Kebab is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender marinated chicken with smoky grilled flavor and aromatic spices. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this easy and versatile recipe is perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or special occasions.

Chicken Tikka Kebab

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Chicken Tikka Kebab is a juicy and flavorful dish made with tender chicken marinated in yogurt, lemon juice, and aromatic Indian spices, then grilled or roasted until lightly charred. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these kebabs are packed with smoky, bold flavor.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grill
• Cuisine: Indian
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon paprika or Kashmiri chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• Skewers

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken into evenly sized bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, oil, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly in the marinade.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
5. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
6. Preheat the grill, oven, or air fryer to medium-high heat.
7. Cook the chicken kebabs for 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly charred.
8. Brush lightly with oil or butter during cooking if desired.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Notes

• Chicken thighs stay especially juicy and flavorful for kebabs.
• Soak wooden skewers in water before using to prevent burning.
• Add bell peppers and onions to the skewers for extra flavor and color.
• Serve with mint chutney, garlic sauce, naan, or rice.
• Marinating overnight creates deeper flavor and more tender chicken.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 640 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg