Chicken Tikka | Delicious Homemade Chicken Tikka Recipe: Easy and Flavorful

Looking for a tasty and easy-to-make chicken dish? Look no further than our homemade chicken tikka recipe! Marinated in a blend of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices, this dish is bursting with flavor and sure to impress. Simply skewer the marinated chicken cubes and grill to perfection for a slightly charred and juicy texture.

Serve with a side of fresh lemon wedges and mint yogurt sauce for a truly authentic taste. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a more formal gathering. Plus, with its high protein content and low calorie count, it's a healthy and satisfying option for any diet. Give our chicken tikka recipe a try and experience the delicious flavors of India right in your own home!

Read More: Chicken Malai Tikka

What is Chicken Tikka?

Chicken tikka is a popular Indian dish that is made by skewering marinated chicken pieces and grilling or baking them. The marination of this dish is quite simple and easy. The marinated chicken is put on skewers and cooked in an Indian tandoor oven, which is a traditional clay oven.

Chicken tikka can also be made in a regular oven or on a barbecue grill if a tandoor oven is not available. But always try to make chicken tikka in clay oven (Tandoor) to give a smoky flavor to the dish and it is served with mint chutney and sliced onions. 

With the time Chicken Tikka become so popular that now it is available in menu of almost every restaurant. This dish can be enjoyed as an appetizer or you can also have it with rumali roti as a main course.

History of Chicken Tikka:

According to the sources this dish was invented in early 16th century in the Mughal Era. The Mughals were known for their elaborate feasts and their love for rich and flavorful food. At that time tandoor was invented which help in making these type of dishes.

It is likely to be believed that chicken tikka was originated in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. In this blog we are sharing pro tips and faqs so that you can easily prepare this dish at your home with any expertise.

Today, chicken tikka is a popular dish not just in India, but around the world. You can find this dish in menu of almost every cafe and restaurants around the world.

Ingredients of Chicken Tikka Recipe:

• 500g boneless chicken, cut into small cubes

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons ginger paste

• 2 teaspoons garlic paste

• 2 teaspoons paprika

• 1 teaspoon cumin powder

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

• Salt, to taste

• 2 tablespoons oil

• Skewers

Stepwise process to make Chicken Tikka at Home:

·         In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, paprika, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.

·         Add the chicken to the bowl and mix well, making sure that each piece is coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

·         Soak the skewers in water for about 30 minutes before using them.

·         Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

·         Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.

·         Brush the chicken with oil and place the skewers on the grill.

·         Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning the skewers occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.

·         Serve hot with some fresh lemon wedges and mint yogurt sauce, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Tikka!

Pro Tips:

Sure, here are some pro tips to help you make perfect chicken tikka:

·         Use boneless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender than chicken breast, which can become dry when cooked. If possible, use boneless chicken thighs for your chicken tikka.

·         Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours: Marinating the chicken for a longer period of time will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it more tender.

·         Use a combination of yogurt and lemon juice: The acidity of the lemon juice helps to tenderize the meat, while the yogurt adds flavor and helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking.

·         Skewer the chicken tightly: Skewer the chicken pieces tightly together so that they don't fall apart when grilling.

·         Grill over medium-high heat: Cooking the chicken over medium-high heat will ensure that it cooks evenly and develops a nice char on the outside.

·         Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooking the chicken can result in dry and tough meat. Make sure to remove the chicken from the grill as soon as it is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.

·         Rest the chicken before serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure that the meat is tender and juicy.

By following these tips, you'll be able to make perfect chicken tikka that is bursting with flavor and tender in texture.

Faqs:

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for chicken tikka?

Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer, but it tends to be less flavorful and can become dry when cooked. If using chicken breast, be sure not to overcook it.

How long should I marinate the chicken for chicken tikka?

It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but you can marinate it for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Can I use a regular oven to cook chicken tikka?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.

Do I need a tandoor oven to make chicken tikka?

No, you don't need a tandoor oven to make chicken tikka. You can use a grill or a regular oven to cook the chicken.

Can I freeze chicken tikka?

Yes, you can freeze chicken tikka. After cooking and cooling the chicken, store it in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then grill or bake until heated through.

What is the best way to serve chicken tikka?

Chicken tikka can be served on its own as an appetizer or as a main course with rice, naan bread, or salad. It also pairs well with mint yogurt sauce or raita.