Chicken Tikka: A Classic Indian Dish Perfect for Dinner
Chicken Tikka is a classic Indian dish that is perfect for dinner. The dish is made from marinated chicken that is then grilled or baked until it is tender and juicy. This dish is perfect for those who love spicy food, as it is packed with flavor and heat. In this blog post, we will show you how to make the perfect Chicken Tikka with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Thread the chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. Brush with oil and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred in places. Alternatively, grill the chicken skewers over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Serve hot with naan bread and your favorite chutney or raita.
That’s it! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the spices add just the right amount of heat and flavor.
Variations
If you are a vegetarian, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish. Substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu and follow the same steps.
If you want to make this dish even spicier, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chopped green chilies to the marinade.
To make this dish even more flavorful, you can add some garam masala to the marinade. Garam masala is a spice blend commonly used in Indian cuisine and adds a warm and aromatic flavor to dishes.
Conclusion
Chicken Tikka is a classic Indian dish that is perfect for dinner. This recipe is easy to prepare and is packed with flavor and heat. Whether you are a fan of spicy food or just looking for a new and exciting dish to try, Chicken Tikka is sure to impress. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy the delicious flavor and aroma of this classic Indian dish.
FAQ
What is Chicken Tikka?
Chicken Tikka is a popular Indian dish made of small pieces of boneless chicken that are marinated with yogurt and spices and then grilled or baked.
What spices are used in the Chicken Tikka marinade?
The Chicken Tikka marinade typically includes a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and garam masala, along with garlic, ginger, and yogurt.
How long should I marinate the chicken for?
It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful.
Can I cook Chicken Tikka in the oven?
Yes, you can cook Chicken Tikka in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
What should I serve with Chicken Tikka?
Chicken Tikka is often served with rice, naan bread, and a side of cucumber and tomato salad.
Can I freeze Chicken Tikka?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Tikka. Allow the cooked chicken to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
How can I make the Chicken Tikka spicier?
To make the Chicken Tikka spicier, you can add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade. Alternatively, you can serve it with a side of spicy chutney or hot sauce.
What is the best way to grill Chicken Tikka?
To grill Chicken Tikka, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt in the Chicken Tikka marinade. However, Greek yogurt has a thicker consistency, so you may need to thin it out with a little bit of water or lime juice.
