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Chicken Tikka Kebabs

Chicken Tikka Kebabs

Chicken Tikka Kebabs are juicy, tender, and bursting with authentic Indian spices, marinated in a tangy yogurt mixture that locks in moisture. Perfectly charred on the grill or stovetop, these skewers deliver a flavorful, protein-rich meal great for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes

Marinade

  • 1 cup plain, thick yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil or mustard oil

Additional

  • Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
  • Fresh cilantro, sliced red onions, and lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into even, bite-sized cubes to ensure uniform cooking and effective absorption of the marinade.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic and ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, salt, and oil until smooth and aromatic.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, coating each piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
  4. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread marinated chicken cubes onto each skewer, leaving small gaps between pieces to ensure even heat circulation.
  5. Grill the Kebabs: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through with beautiful char marks and the edges are slightly crispy.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the kebabs rest for a few minutes off the heat to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve hot with chutneys, naan, or your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor and tenderness.
  • Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and avoid dryness.
  • Preheat the grill properly to get smoky char marks and quick searing.
  • Do not overcrowd the skewers; leave spaces between pieces for even cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy chicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Tikka Kebabs, Indian Chicken Kebabs, Grilled Chicken Skewers, Yogurt Marinated Chicken, Indian Grilled Chicken