Chicken Tikka Skewers have always been a family favorite in our home. The smoky aroma that wafts through the kitchen as they grill and the vibrant colors of the spices make this dish a feast for the senses. My family never fails to express their delight whenever these skewers make an appearance on our dinner table. The combination of tender chicken marinated in creamy yogurt and spices, then cooked to perfection, offers a delightful experience that is both comforting and exotic. My children, who can be quite picky eaters, especially love the juicy pieces of chicken that are perfectly charred on the outside. These skewers have become a staple for family gatherings and even casual weeknight dinners, always bringing smiles and satisfaction to everyone who indulges in them.

Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 500g boneless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 cup plain yogurt: This will form the base of your marinade.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the chicken.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a pungent flavor.
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated: Offers warmth and depth to the marinade.
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin: A staple spice in Indian cooking.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a citrusy note.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder: Gives the dish its characteristic yellow color.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: For a mild heat and smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garam masala: A blend of ground spices that adds complexity.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Chopped cilantro for garnish: Adds freshness and color.
• Wooden skewers: Soaked in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning.

Instructions

Creating Chicken Tikka Skewers is a straightforward process that involves marination and grilling. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat the grill: If using an outdoor grill, heat it to medium-high. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) if using an oven grill.
4. Thread the chicken onto skewers: Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the pieces onto the soaked skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking.
5. Grill the chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. If using an oven, place the skewers on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
6. Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill or oven. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe serves 4 people, with each serving containing approximately 250 calories. These numbers may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used, so it’s always a good idea to check the nutrition information on the products you use if calorie counting is important to you.

Preparation Time

The total preparation time for Chicken Tikka Skewers is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes 30 minutes for active preparation and cooking, and an additional 1 hour for marinating the chicken. If you choose to marinate the chicken overnight, the prep time effectively reduces to just the active cooking time, making it a convenient option for busy days.

How to Serve

Chicken Tikka Skewers can be served in a variety of delicious ways:

• With Naan Bread: Serve the skewers alongside warm naan bread for a complete meal.
• In a Wrap: Wrap the chicken pieces in a flatbread with lettuce, onions, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce.
• Over Rice: Accompany the skewers with a serving of fragrant basmati rice.
• With a Salad: Pair with a fresh salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the skewers as a starter at a party with a side of mint chutney.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Chicken Tikka Skewers turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

1. Use Fresh Spices: The quality of your spices can greatly affect the flavor of the dish. Make sure your spices are fresh and stored properly.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave space between the chicken pieces on the skewers to ensure even cooking.
3. Soak Skewers Thoroughly: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling.
4. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
5. Use Chicken Thighs for Juicier Skewers: If you prefer, substitute chicken breast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Tikka Skewers:

1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb or beef for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these meats may require longer to cook.
2. What can I use if I don’t have a grill? If you don’t have access to a grill, you can use an oven broiler or a stovetop grill pan to cook the skewers.
3. How long can I marinate the chicken? While it’s best to marinate the chicken overnight to maximize flavor, you can marinate it for a minimum of 1 hour if you’re short on time.
4. Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
5. What side dishes go well with Chicken Tikka Skewers? Popular side dishes include cucumber raita, mint chutney, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad.