Chicken Tikka Recipe

Chicken Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer made with juicy chicken pieces marinated in yogurt and aromatic spices, then grilled or baked until perfectly charred and tender.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 2 hours
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 500 g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup thick plain hung yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (for color)
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 tbsp oil

For Garnishing

• Onion rings
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh coriander leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, spices, salt, and oil.
2. Add chicken pieces and coat well.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Oven Method

1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Arrange marinated chicken on a baking tray or skewers.
3. Bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through and slightly charred.

Pan Method

1. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.

Step 3: Serve

1. Transfer chicken tikka to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with onion rings, coriander, and lemon wedges.
3. Serve hot with mint chutney.

Tips

• Use chicken thigh pieces for extra juicy tikka.
• Overnight marination gives deeper flavor.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a mild smoky taste.
• Do not overcrowd the pan while cooking.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 13g

This homemade Chicken Tikka is flavorful, high in protein, and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party starter.