Introduction

Chicken tikka skewers are a flavorful and vibrant dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your table. Infused with a blend of spices and yogurt, these skewers are perfect for grilling, making them an ideal choice for outdoor gatherings or a quick dinner option. The marinated chicken, once grilled, becomes tender and juicy, while the spices elevate its taste to new heights. This recipe not only showcases the deliciousness of chicken but also allows for customization based on your preference for spice and flavor.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Chicken breast: 700g, diced into chunks
– Greek yogurt: 200g
– Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
– Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon
– Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
– Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
– Paprika: 1 teaspoon
– Garlic: 3 cloves, finely grated
– Fresh ginger: 1 inch, grated
– Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Salt: to taste
– Fresh cilantro: for garnish

Prep Time

The preparation time for these chicken tikka skewers is approximately 15 minutes, excluding the marinating time.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

– Cook Time: 10-15 minutes on the grill
– Total Time: About 1 hour, including marination
– Yield: Serves 4

These chicken tikka skewers are not only simple to make but offer a delightful experience for anyone who loves a little spice in their life. Enjoy them with naan bread, chutney, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into even-sized chunks, ensuring they are not too large or too small for skewering.

Make the Marinade

In a bowl, combine yogurt, ginger, garlic, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Mix well to create a smooth marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or overnight for better flavor.

Prepare Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning. Alternatively, metal skewers can be used without soaking.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or barbecue to a medium-high temperature, ensuring it is ready for the skewers.

Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Take the marinated chicken pieces and thread them onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks.

Rest the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Choosing Chicken

For the best results, use boneless chicken thighs as they remain juicier during cooking compared to chicken breasts.

Marination Time

The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be; overnight marination is recommended if time allows.

Serving Suggestions

These skewers can be served with naan bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Variations

Feel free to incorporate various vegetables such as bell peppers or onions on the skewers for added flavor and color.

Storage

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with flavor.

Skewering

Using skewers allows for even cooking and makes the chicken easy to handle on the grill or in the oven.

Grilling

Grilling the skewers provides a smoky flavor and creates a nice char on the chicken, enhancing the overall taste.

Basting

Basting the chicken with marinade while it cooks helps keep it moist and adds extra flavor.

Serving

Serving the skewers with a side of fresh herbs or a yogurt sauce enhances the dish and adds freshness.

FAQ

What type of chicken is best for tikka skewers?

Boneless chicken thighs are often recommended for their tenderness and flavor, but boneless chicken breasts can also work well.

Can I use vegetables with the skewers?

Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini can complement the chicken and add color to the dish.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 1 hour is ideal, but for even more flavor, you can marinate overnight.

Can I cook these skewers in the oven?

Absolutely! You can place the skewers on a baking tray and grill them under a broiler or bake them at a high temperature.

What can I serve with chicken tikka skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, naan, or a fresh salad, and can be complemented with various sauces like mint chutney or yogurt dip.

Conclusion

The Chicken Tikka Skewers recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your table. With its marinated chicken grilled to perfection, this dish not only promises a burst of spices but also offers a delightful cooking experience. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that is sure to impress.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spicy Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Finish your meal with spicy garlic shrimp skewers that complement the chicken tikka with their zesty and bold flavors.

Cucumber and Mint Raita

Pair your skewers with a cooling cucumber and mint raita, which balances the spices beautifully and adds a refreshing touch.

Grilled Vegetable Medley

Add a side of grilled vegetable medley to provide a colorful and nutritious accompaniment to your chicken skewers.

Naan Bread

Serve your chicken tikka skewers with warm naan bread for a traditional touch, perfect for scooping up any sauces or dips.

Spicy Chickpea Salad

A spicy chickpea salad can be an excellent vegetarian option, offering a hearty and flavorful side that complements the main dish wonderfully.

Rice Pilaf

Consider rice pilaf seasoned with herbs and spices as a cozy and satisfying base for the chicken tikka skewers.

Mango Chutney

Don’t forget to include a side of mango chutney for a sweet and tangy contrast that enhances the flavors of the skewers.