Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers Recipe
This Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers recipe features succulent chicken breast marinated in a vibrant blend of spices, yogurt, and fresh herbs. The chicken is infused with traditional Indian flavors like garam masala, turmeric, and Kashmiri chili powder, then grilled or cooked to juicy perfection. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or main dish, these kebabs are garnished with fresh coriander for a burst of freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including marination)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 400g (14 oz) Chicken Breast, cut into kebab-sized pieces
- 35g (Thumb Sized Piece) Ginger, peeled and chopped
- 3 Cloves Garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 tablespoon Kashmiri Chili Powder
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- ½ teaspoon Turmeric
- 15g (⅓–½ Packed Cup) Fresh Coriander, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 2 tablespoon Cooking Oil (such as vegetable or mustard oil)
- 50g (¼ Cup) Yoghurt (preferably thick or Greek-style)
For Garnish:
- Freshly chopped coriander leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a blender or using a mortar and pestle, combine the ginger, garlic, salt, ground cumin, Kashmiri chili powder, garam masala, turmeric, fresh coriander, lemon juice, cooking oil, and yogurt. Blend until you obtain a smooth, thick paste that will coat the chicken evenly.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breast pieces in a large bowl. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Cook the Kebabs: Preheat a grill, grill pan, or preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Grill the skewers for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char on the edges. Alternatively, you can bake the skewers in the oven on a lined baking tray for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken kebabs from the grill or oven. Garnish generously with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with lemon wedges and your choice of chutneys or sauces.
Notes
- Using Kashmiri chili powder provides vibrant color without overwhelming heat; substitute with mild paprika if unavailable.
- For extra smoky flavor, cook the kebabs over charcoal or use a smoking technique.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breast for juicier kebabs.
- Marinate longer for more intense flavor; overnight is ideal.
- Serve with mint chutney or raita to complement the spices.
Keywords: Tandoori chicken, Chicken tikka, Indian kebabs, grilled chicken, spicy chicken skewers