A smoky, tender, flavor-packed Indian classic you can easily make in your own kitchen
1️⃣ Introduction: Why Chicken Tikka Kebabs Are a Total Winner
Chicken Tikka Kebabs are one of those recipes that never fail to impress. Juicy chunks of chicken are marinated in a rich, spiced yogurt mixture, then cooked until perfectly charred and smoky.
What makes this dish special?
- Big, bold flavors
- High protein and naturally gluten-free
- Works for grilling, oven baking, or air frying
- Perfect as a starter, snack, or main meal
Whether you’re hosting guests or just craving something flavorful, Chicken Tikka Kebabs bring restaurant-style magic straight to your plate.
2️⃣ Ingredients: Complete Shopping List (Exact Measurements)
🥩 For the Chicken
- 500 grams boneless chicken (thighs preferred for juiciness, breasts also work)
- Cut into 1½-inch cubes
🥣 For the Marinade
- ½ cup thick plain yogurt (Greek or hung curd recommended)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon mustard oil (optional but authentic)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
🌶️ Spices
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (for color, mild heat)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, enhances smoky flavor)
- Salt to taste
🧅 Optional Veggies for Skewers
- 1 medium onion, cut into chunks
- 1 capsicum (bell pepper), cubed
3️⃣ Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
- Mixing bowl (large)
- Whisk or spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers)
- Oven / grill pan / air fryer
- Baking tray
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper
- Tongs or spatula
4️⃣ Preparation Steps (Simple & Clear)
- Clean and cut the chicken into even-sized cubes for uniform cooking.
- Prepare the marinade by whisking yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, oil, mustard oil, and all spices in a bowl.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade and coat well.
- Cover and rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for deep flavor).
- Chop vegetables (onion and capsicum) if using.
- Thread chicken and veggies alternately onto skewers.
5️⃣ Cooking Instructions (Oven, Grill & Air Fryer)
🔥 Oven Method (Most Popular)
- Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F)
- Place skewers on a lined baking tray
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway
- Broil for last 3–4 minutes for charred edges
🍳 Grill Pan / Tawa
- Heat pan on medium-high with a little oil
- Cook skewers, rotating sides, for 12–15 minutes
- Lightly press for even browning
🌬️ Air Fryer
- Preheat to 200°C (390°F)
- Air fry for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway
💡 Secret Tip: Brush melted butter or oil during the last 2 minutes for extra juiciness.
6️⃣ Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Tikka Kebabs hot with:
- Mint chutney or green coriander chutney
- Lemon wedges
- Onion rings sprinkled with chaat masala
🍽️ Side Pairings:
- Butter naan or roomali roti
- Fresh salad or cucumber raita
- As a filling for wraps, rolls, or rice bowls
7️⃣ Additional Tips & Variations
- Extra smoky flavor: Add a pinch of charcoal smoke (dhungar method).
- Healthier option: Use low-fat Greek yogurt and air fry.
- Spicy version: Add green chili paste to marinade.
- Dairy-free: Use thick coconut yogurt.
- Meal prep friendly: Marinate and freeze for up to 1 month.
8️⃣ Nutrition Details (Per Serving – Approx. 2 Skewers)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 kcal |
| Protein | ~32 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~6 g |
| Fat | ~14 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sugar | ~3 g |
Values are approximate and may vary by ingredients used.
9️⃣ FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make Chicken Tikka without an oven?
Yes! A grill pan or air fryer works perfectly.
Q2: How long can leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q3: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely. Just don’t overcook, as breasts dry out faster.
Q4: Is Chicken Tikka healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein, low in carbs, and can be made low-fat.
Q5: Can I freeze marinated chicken?
Yes, freeze for up to 1 month and thaw overnight before cooking.
🔟 Wrap-Up: Final Thoughts
Chicken Tikka Kebabs are more than just a recipe—they’re a celebration of bold Indian flavors. With the right marinade and cooking method, you’ll get juicy, smoky, restaurant-quality kebabs every single time.
✨ Fun Fact: Chicken Tikka is believed to have originated in Punjab and later inspired the world-famous Chicken Tikka Masala.
Once you try this homemade version, ordering it outside might never feel the same again. Happy cooking! 🍢🔥
