Ingredients Needed for Chicken Tikka
To make the perfect Chicken Tikka, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 500 grams of boneless chicken (preferably thighs or breast, cut into cubes)
- 1 cup plain yogurt (thick and fresh)
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for colour)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon kasturi methi (dried fenugreek leaves, optional)
For Cooking:
- Skewers (if grilling)
- Butter or oil for basting
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Make Chicken Tikka Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Wash and pat dry the chicken cubes with a paper towel.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, add the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and all the dry spices (red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and paprika).
- Mix the marinade well until all ingredients are combined.
- Add mustard oil and kasturi methi for an authentic smoky flavour.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and coat them evenly.
- Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).
Step 4: Preheat Your Cooking Method Choose your preferred method for cooking:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking tray with aluminium foil.
- Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan or skillet on medium-high heat.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken Tikka
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers if using a grill or oven.
- For grilling or oven cooking, place the skewers on the grill or baking tray.
- Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with butter or oil for extra flavour.
- In the oven, bake for 15 minutes, then broil for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a charred look.
- For stovetop cooking, place the chicken pieces on the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, basting with butter.
Step 6: Serve the Chicken Tikka
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skewers (if applicable) and arrange on a serving plate.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, sliced onions, and lemon wedges.
- Serve hot with mint chutney, naan, or steamed rice.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Tikka
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your yogurt, spices, and chicken will directly impact the flavour.
- Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the depth of flavour.
- Charcoal touch: For a smoky restaurant-style flavor, place a small bowl with a lit charcoal piece in the marinade and cover it for 5 minutes before cooking.
- Experiment with spices: Adjust the spice levels to suit your palate.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g