Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 500 g (1 lb) boneless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup (120 g) plain yogurt (preferably thick)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp garam masala powder
- 1 tsp paprika (for color, optional)
- 1 tbsp mustard oil or regular vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp gram flour (besan) or cornstarch (to bind the marinade)
- Salt to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Sliced onions
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh cilantro leaves
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, paprika, oil, gram flour, and salt.
- Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix thoroughly to coat each piece.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for the best flavor.
Cook the Tikka Kababs:
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden). Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken pieces on a greased baking tray or skewer them and set on a rack. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for a charred effect.
- Pan-Fry: Heat 1-2 tbsp oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked.
Serve:
- Serve hot with mint chutney, sliced onions, and lemon wedges. Pair with naan, paratha, or steamed rice.
Tips for Best Results:
- For authentic smoky flavor, place a lit piece of charcoal in a small bowl inside the marinated chicken. Drizzle a few drops of oil on the coal, cover the bowl tightly for 5-10 minutes, then proceed with cooking.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier kababs.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Tikka Kababs