Authentic Grilled Chicken Tikka Recipe

Chicken Tikka is a beloved dish that has captivated the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. This recipe for Chicken Tikka is designed to be perfect and ideal for cooking at home, ensuring a burst of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or craving a restaurant-style dish, our Chicken Tikka recipe will not disappoint. With tender chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and yogurt, this Chicken Tikka is guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients for Chicken Tikka

• Chicken breast (چکن بریسٹ): 1 kg
• Plain yogurt (سادہ دہی): 1 cup
• Ginger paste (ادرک کا پیسٹ): 1 tablespoon
• Garlic paste (لہسن کا پیسٹ): 1 tablespoon
• Lemon juice (لیموں کا رس): 2 tablespoons
• Red chili powder (لال مرچ پاؤڈر): 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder (ہلدی پاؤڈر): 1/2 teaspoon
• Garam masala (گرم مصالحہ): 1 teaspoon
• Cumin powder (زیرہ پاؤڈر): 1 teaspoon
• Coriander powder (دھنیا پاؤڈر): 1 teaspoon
• Salt (نمک): to taste
• Vegetable oil (سبزی کا تیل): 2 tablespoons
• Skewers (سیخیں): as needed

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Method of Cooking Step by Step

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the plain yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade. (بڑے پیالے میں سادہ دہی، ادرک پیسٹ، لہسن پیسٹ، لیموں کا رس، لال مرچ پاؤڈر، ہلدی پاؤڈر، گرم مصالحہ، زیرہ پاؤڈر، دھنیا پاؤڈر اور نمک ملا کر ہموار مرینیڈ بنائیں۔)

2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breast pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. (چکن بریسٹ کے ٹکڑوں کو مرینیڈ میں ڈال کر اچھی طرح ملائیں۔ پیالے کو ڈھانپ کر کم از کم 2 گھنٹے کے لیے فریج میں رکھیں، یا بہترین نتائج کے لیے رات بھر چھوڑ دیں۔)

3. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. (اپنے گرل کو درمیانے سے زیادہ حرارت پر پہلے سے گرم کریں۔ اگر سیخیں استعمال کر رہے ہیں تو انہیں جلنے سے بچانے کے لیے 30 منٹ تک پانی میں بھگو دیں۔)

4. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. (مرینیڈ چکن کے ٹکڑوں کو سیخوں پر پروئیں، ہر ٹکڑے کے درمیان تھوڑی جگہ چھوڑ کر تاکہ یکساں پک سکیں۔)

5. Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Brush with vegetable oil occasionally for extra flavor and moisture. (سیخوں کو پہلے سے گرم کیے ہوئے گرل پر رکھیں۔ ہر طرف سے تقریباً 10 منٹ پکائیں، یا جب تک چکن مکمل طور پر پک نہ جائے اور اس پر اچھی طرح سے چار نہ ہو جائے۔ مزید ذائقے اور نمی کے لیے وقفے وقفے سے سبزی کا تیل برش کریں۔)

6. Serve Hot: Remove the chicken tikka from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with mint chutney and lemon wedges. (چکن ٹکا کو گرل سے نکال کر کچھ منٹ کے لیے چھوڑ دیں۔ پودینہ چٹنی اور لیموں کے ٹکڑوں کے ساتھ گرم گرم پیش کریں۔)

About Chicken Tikka Recipe

Where it’s Cooked

Chicken Tikka is a popular dish across South Asia, particularly in India and Pakistan. It is often prepared during festive occasions, family gatherings, and barbecues. The versatility of this dish allows it to be cooked both indoors in an oven or outdoors on a grill, making it a year-round favorite. The smoky flavor from the grill and the spicy marinade make it a staple at many food festivals and celebrations.

The History and Origins of this Recipe

The origins of Chicken Tikka can be traced back to the Mughal era, where royal chefs created elaborate dishes with rich flavors. “Tikka” means “bits” or “pieces,” and traditionally, the dish involves marinating small pieces of meat. Over centuries, Chicken Tikka has evolved, incorporating various regional spices and cooking techniques. Today, it is a beloved dish in Indian and Pakistani cuisine, enjoyed by people around the world.

Where People Like it Most

Chicken Tikka is immensely popular in South Asia, particularly in India and Pakistan. It is also a favorite in many Middle Eastern and Western countries, where it is often served in Indian restaurants. The dish’s popularity extends to street food vendors and high-end dining establishments alike, making it a versatile and accessible delicacy. Its flavorful profile and ease of cooking have made it a global favorite, enjoyed at family dinners and social gatherings.

The Benefits of Ingredients on Health

Chicken Tikka is not just delicious; it also offers several health benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Yogurt, used in the marinade, is rich in probiotics, which aid digestion and boost the immune system. Spices like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve digestion. Lemon juice provides a good dose of vitamin C, enhancing the dish’s nutritional value.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Tikka

1. Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
2. Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance the flavor and aroma.
3. Grill Temperature: Maintain medium-high heat to cook the chicken evenly.
4. Oil Brush: Brush with oil to keep the chicken moist and prevent sticking.