Go Back
+ servings
Chicken Tikka Recipe

Juicy Chicken Tikka Recipe for Flavor-Packed Family Meals

This Chicken Tikka Recipe is a flavorful dish that captures the essence of Indian cuisine, perfect for family meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 cup full-fat plain yogurt Substitution: Greek yogurt for thicker marinade.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Fresh lemon juice is preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons avocado or canola oil Substitution: Olive oil may work, flavor will vary.
  • 4 cloves minced garlic Use fresh garlic for optimal flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated ginger Fresh ginger is best for taste.
  • 1 tablespoon paprika Pro tip: Use smoked paprika for additional flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Essential for the authentic taste.
  • to taste kosher salt Adjust to taste if using table salt.
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala Substitution: Make a quick homemade blend if unavailable.
  • to taste cayenne Substitute with chili powder for less heat.
  • to taste pepper Freshly cracked is recommended for best taste.
For the Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs or breasts Use thighs for juiciness; breasts may dry out.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Grill
  • Oven
  • Air Fryer
  • skewers

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, blend together the yogurt, lemon juice, oil, garlic, ginger, paprika, cumin, salt, garam masala, cayenne, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.
  2. Take the chicken and add it to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
  3. Preheat your cooking method: grill to medium-high (375°F), oven to 425°F, or air fryer to 400°F. Prepare skewers if grilling.
  4. Cook the chicken on the grill for 6-8 minutes, baking for 15-18 minutes, or air frying for 10-12 minutes, ensuring proper internal temperature.
  5. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving with sides like garlic naan or yogurt sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Longer marination enhances flavor; avoid overcooking to prevent dryness, especially with chicken breasts. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish further.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!