Chicken Tikka Kebabs

For Cooking:

• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh herbs, like cilantro or mint (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Tikka Kebabs

Making Chicken Tikka Kebabs at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for tender, flavorful kebabs.

1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade

Start by preparing the marinade that will infuse your chicken with incredible flavor.

• In a large bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, and vegetable oil. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and all the dry spices: cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, paprika, and cinnamon (if using).
• Season with salt and pepper, then mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
• Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss them in the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate for at least 1-2 hours. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for 4-6 hours or overnight in the fridge.

2. Prepare the Skewers

While the chicken is marinating, prep your skewers.

• If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking.
• Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. You can alternate the chicken with slices of onion or bell pepper if you prefer a bit of extra flavor and color in your kebabs.

3. Grill the Chicken Tikka Kebabs

Now, it’s time to cook the chicken. You can either grill the kebabs or bake them in the oven.

• For grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and slightly charred on the outside. Baste with any leftover marinade during grilling to enhance the flavor.
• For baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. You can also broil the kebabs for 2-3 minutes at the end to get a nice char on top.

4. Serve the Chicken Tikka Kebabs

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skewers from the grill or oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes.

Serve the kebabs hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a few wedges of lemon for added freshness. You can also serve them with a side of naan, rice, or a refreshing yogurt-based sauce (such as raita) to complement the bold flavors.

Tips for the Best Chicken Tikka Kebabs

• Use Chicken Thighs: While chicken breasts work, chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay juicier after grilling. The extra fat from the thighs helps keep the chicken moist and tender.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, adjust the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely. You can also use mild paprika instead of smoked paprika for a more subtle flavor.
• Marinate Longer for Extra Flavor: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least a couple of hours, but overnight marination will yield the best results.
• Add Veggies: For added color and flavor, you can alternate chicken with pieces of onion, bell peppers, or tomato on the skewers. The veggies will soak up some of the marinade, giving them a delicious flavor.
• Serve with Raita: A cooling cucumber and yogurt dip (raita) works perfectly with the spiciness of the chicken tikka kebabs. It balances the heat and enhances the flavors.

Why Chicken Tikka Kebabs Are a Must-Try

Chicken Tikka Kebabs are an ideal choice for those who love bold, aromatic flavors. The marinated chicken is infused with spices that create a wonderful depth of flavor, while grilling (or baking) gives it a smoky, charred exterior that’s irresistibly delicious. The kebabs are easy to prepare and cook, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends and family.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you serve them with naan, rice, a fresh salad, or even a squeeze of lemon, the chicken tikka kebabs will always be the star of the meal. These kebabs bring the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine to your table in a fun and accessible way.

Once you try these flavorful Chicken Tikka Kebabs, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.