Hello, welcome to my beautiful world! My name is Prisca Bush. I am a food lover; I enjoy writing about my favorite recipes.
Introduction
There are certain dishes that feel like home—those recipes that carry memories, aromas, family gatherings, and warm evenings right along with them. For me, one of those dishes is Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe.
I grew up with the smell of marinated chicken sizzling on skewers, the fragrance of yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices filling the entire house. Whether it was a weekend cookout, a festive celebration, or just a spontaneous craving for something delicious, Chicken Tikka Kebabs were always a go-to. There’s something magical about that moment the chicken hits the grill—the smokiness, the char, the vibrant color, the anticipation.
Even now, making Chicken Tikka Kebabs brings the same excitement. I love how simple the ingredients are, yet the flavors are bold and unforgettable. The combination of tender marinated chicken, fresh spices, and a touch of tangy yogurt makes the dish incredibly satisfying. And the best part? You don’t need a tandoor or fancy equipment. These kebabs turn out amazing whether you grill them, bake them, or cook them on a stovetop skillet.
In this full Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe, I’ll walk you through everything—from ingredients and marination tips to cooking methods, serving ideas, variations, and more. If you love bold Indian flavors, this recipe is going to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Let’s dive in!
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Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe (2026)
Ingredients for Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe
The beauty of this Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe is that it uses simple, accessible ingredients—but when combined, they deliver restaurant-level flavor.
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (preferred) or breasts
- 1 tbsp oil (neutral or mustard oil)
- Metal or wooden skewers (if wooden, soak for 20 minutes)
For the Marinade
- 1 cup thick yogurt (Greek yogurt works well)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ginger paste
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- 1 tbsp vegetable or mustard oil
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 ½ tsp garam masala
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1–2 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (for color and mild heat)
- ½ tsp regular chili powder (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for smokiness)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional for richer color)
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 tbsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 1 tbsp melted butter for brushing
- Sliced onions and bell peppers for skewering
How to Prepare Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe
This Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe is broken down into three easy steps: marination, skewering, and cooking.
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Wash and pat dry the chicken pieces.
- Cut them into uniform 1.5-inch chunks—this ensures even cooking.
- Set aside in a bowl.
2. Make the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Yogurt
- Lemon juice
- Garlic paste
- Ginger paste
- Oil
- All spices
- Salt
- Mix well until smooth and evenly combined.
The marinade should be thick, fragrant, and richly colored.
3. Marinate the Chicken
- Add the chicken pieces into the marinade.
- Massage gently until every piece is fully coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
- Marinate for:
- At least 1 hour (minimum)
- 4–6 hours for deeper flavor
- Overnight for maximum tenderness
Yogurt tenderizes the chicken beautifully, so don’t rush this step if you can avoid it.
4. Skewer the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
Optional: Alternate with bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes.
If using wooden skewers, soak them for 20 minutes first to prevent burning.
5. Cook the Chicken Tikka Kebabs
You can use any of these three simple cooking methods:
A) Grill Method (Best Flavor)
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Brush with melted butter for added flavor.
- Cook until slightly charred at the edges and juicy inside.
B) Oven-Baked Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil and place a rack on top.
- Arrange skewers on the rack.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes for a smoky charred finish.
C) Stovetop or Cast-Iron Skillet
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a heavy skillet.
- Place chicken pieces or skewers in the pan.
- Cook on medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Cook until the edges are slightly crisp and the inside is tender.
All methods result in a juicy, flavorful Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe.
How to Serve Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe
Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:
1. As an Appetizer
Serve with:
- Mint chutney
- Yogurt raita
- Lemon wedges
- Sliced onions
Perfect for parties and gatherings.
2. With Rice
Pair with:
- Jeera rice
- Coconut rice
- Steamed basmati
- Pilaf
Makes a hearty, satisfying meal.
3. With Naan or Roti
Stuff into:
- Garlic naan
- Butter naan
- Tandoori roti
- Paratha
Top with cucumbers, onions, and mint yogurt. So good!
4. As a Wrap or Roll
Roll into:
- Tortillas
- Pita
- Parathas
Add lettuce, onions, sauces, and enjoy a handheld meal.
5. In a Salad Bowl
Serve over:
- Fresh greens
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Red onions
- Yogurt dressing
Light, healthy, and flavorful.
6. As Part of a Platter
Combine with:
- Hummus
- Falafel
- Garlic sauce
- Olives
- Warm pita
A fusion Mediterranean-Indian platter everyone will love.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe
These tips will elevate your Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe from good to restaurant-quality.
1. Use chicken thighs if possible
They stay juicier and more tender than breasts.
2. Don’t skip the yogurt
It tenderizes and creates the signature tikka texture.
3. Marinate overnight for maximum flavor
The longer the marinade, the better.
4. Add mustard oil
Even a teaspoon adds authentic aroma and depth.
5. Use Kashmiri chili powder
It gives a deep red color with mild heat.
6. Use skewers for even cooking
Skewers help caramelize edges and achieve a tandoori effect.
7. Don’t overcook the chicken
Remove as soon as it reaches 165°F internally.
8. Brush with butter while grilling
Adds shine, richness, and enhances char.
9. Broil for smoky flavor
If you don’t have a grill, broiling at high heat mimics tandoor-style cooking.
10. Rest before serving
Let kebabs rest 2–3 minutes to keep them juicy.
Variations of Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe
The base recipe is perfect, but you can have fun customizing it.
1. Chicken Malai Tikka (Creamy)
Add:
- 2 tbsp cream
- 1 tbsp cheese spread
- Green chilies
- White pepper
Milder and creamier.
2. Spicy Tikka Kebabs
Add:
- Extra chili powder
- Green chilies
- Chili flakes
- Hot paprika
For heat lovers.
3. Hariyali (Green) Chicken Tikka
Blend into the marinade:
- Cilantro
- Mint
- Spinach
- Green chilies
A refreshing, herb-forward version.
4. Tandoori Chicken Tikka
Add:
- More paprika
- Tandoori masala
- Black salt
Rich, deep flavor.
5. Yogurt-Free Chicken Tikka
Use:
- Coconut cream
- Lime juice
- Oil
- Spices
Great for dairy-free diets.
6. Air Fryer Chicken Tikka Kebabs
Cook at:
- 380°F for 12–14 minutes, turning halfway.
Perfect char with minimal effort.
7. Veggie Tikka Skewers
Use paneer, mushrooms, or cauliflower instead of chicken.
8. Chicken Tikka Bites
Skip skewers—cook marinated chunks directly in a skillet.
9. Chicken Tikka with Veggies
Add sliced:
- Peppers
- Zucchini
- Red onions
- Tomatoes
Enhances flavor and presentation.
10. Low-Carb Chicken Tikka Bowls
Serve with cauliflower rice, low-carb naan, or salad.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between Chicken Tikka and Chicken Tandoori?
Chicken Tikka uses boneless pieces; Chicken Tandoori uses bone-in pieces like legs and thighs.
2. Can I make Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe without skewers?
Yes! Simply spread the marinated chicken on a baking sheet or cook in a skillet.
3. How long should I marinate the chicken?
Minimum 1 hour, but 6 hours or overnight gives the best flavor.
4. Can I use breast instead of thighs?
You can, but thighs stay more tender and flavorful.
5. What if I don’t have yogurt?
Use coconut cream, sour cream, or thick cashew cream.
6. Can I freeze marinated chicken?
Yes—freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and cook as usual.
7. What can I substitute for Kashmiri chili powder?
Use paprika + a touch of cayenne.
8. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Internal temperature should reach 165°F, or juices should run clear.
9. Can I make this Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe ahead?
Yes—marinate a day ahead or cook and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
10. Can I make Chicken Tikka in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 380°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.
Why This Recipe Works (Flavor Breakdown)
Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe have flavor layers that work together beautifully:
Tangy — lemon + yogurt
Spicy — chili + paprika
Aromatic — ginger, garlic, garam masala
Smoky — grill or broiler
Savory — cumin, coriander
Creamy — yogurt marinade
The marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with warming, comforting spices. When the chicken hits high heat, it caramelizes, chars, and locks in all the amazing flavors.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerate
Cooked tikka lasts:
- 3–4 days in an airtight container
Freeze
- Freeze cooked chicken for 2–3 months
- Freeze marinated (uncooked) chicken for 2 months
Reheat
- Microwave with a splash of water
- Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat
- Air fry for 3–4 minutes
Meal Prep Ideas
- Chicken tikka bowls
- Wraps and sandwiches
- Tikka tacos
- Tikka with rice and veggies
Nutrition (Approximate)
Per serving:
- Calories: 260–340
- Protein: 28–32g
- Carbs: 5–8g
- Fat: 14–18g
Varies with marinade thickness and cooking method.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe is one of those universally loved dishes—easy to prepare, full of flavor, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, entertaining guests, or prepping lunches for the week, this recipe delivers every time.
The combination of tangy yogurt, vibrant spices, juicy chicken, and smoky char makes every bite irresistible. And best of all, you can customize it to be as spicy, mild, smoky, or creamy as you like. From stovetop to oven to grill, it’s a flexible dish that fits into any kitchen.
I hope this Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought me over the years. Fire up your grill—or your oven—and get ready to enjoy one of the most delicious kebabs you’ll ever make.
Happy cooking, and enjoy your Chicken Tikka Kebabs!