Authentic Pakistani Chicken Tikka Kebab Recipe

Indulge in the authentic taste of Pakistan with this Chicken Tikka Kebab recipe. You can marinate in a blend of spices like yogurt and herbs these grilled kebabs offer a burst of flavor in every bite. This is a perfect, delightful meal or starter as a savory appetizer.

Pictures Chicken Tikka Kebab

Here’s a delicious Pakistani Chicken Tikka Kebab recipe for you.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds (680g) boneless chicken thighs or breast, cut into cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons ginger paste
• 2 teaspoons garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Skewers, soaked in water (if using wooden skewers)
• Chopped cilantro and lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

1/ In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, oil, ginger paste, garlic paste, red chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, garam masala, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.

2/ Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight for the best flavor.

3/ When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using an oven, preheat it to the highest broil setting.

4/ Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.

5/ If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior.

6/ If using an oven, place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil and place it in the oven on the top rack. Broil for about 12-15 minutes, turning the skewers halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and charred on the edges.

7/ Once done, remove the chicken tikka kebabs from the grill or oven. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your flavorful Pakistani Chicken Tikka Kebabs as a delicious appetizer or as part of a main course with naan or rice!

Tips and Tricks to Make Delicious Pakistani Chicken Tikka Kebabs

Marination Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 2-4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.

Yogurt Quality: Use thick, plain yogurt for marination. Greek yogurt works well as it’s creamy and helps tenderize the chicken while adding a tangy flavor.

Skewer Preparation: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents the skewers from burning during grilling.

Balancing Spices: Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Increase or decrease the amount of red chili powder or paprika to achieve the desired level of heat.

Grilling Technique: Ensure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the skewers.

Even Cooking: Cut the chicken pieces into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding the skewers, leaving some space between the chicken cubes for proper heat circulation.

Basting with Oil: While grilling, lightly brush the chicken with oil to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.

Test for Doneness: To check if the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Resting Period: Let the cooked kebabs rest for a few minutes before serving.

Garnishing and Serving: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro and serve the chicken tikka kebabs hot with lemon wedges for a citrusy zing.

Following these tips will help you create delicious and authentic Pakistani Chicken Tikka Kebabs that are bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked every time!

Nutrition Facts

The nutritional values for Pakistani Chicken Tikka Kebab can vary based on serving sizes and specific ingredients used. However, here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (assuming a serving size of 4 ounces or 113 grams of cooked chicken):

• Calories: Around 200-250 calories
• Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
• Fat: Roughly 8-12 grams
• Carbohydrates: Usually less than 5 grams
• Sodium: Varies based on added salt, generally 300-400 mg
• Other nutrients: Contains calcium, iron, vitamin C, and other vitamins and minerals depending on ingredients used.

Please note that these values are estimations and can fluctuate based on the specific ingredients and cooking methods utilized. Adjustments in marination ingredients like yogurt and oil can affect the final nutritional content.

FAQs About Pakistani Chicken Tikka Kebab

What type of chicken is best for making Chicken Tikka Kebab?

• Boneless chicken thighs or breasts are commonly used for Chicken Tikka Kebab. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts offer a leaner option.

Can I use chicken with bones for Chicken Tikka Kebab?

• While boneless chicken is traditionally used, you can use bone-in chicken if desired. Just ensure that it’s cut into smaller pieces for even cooking.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

• For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2-4 hours in the refrigerator. Overnight marination yields even better results.

Can I make Chicken Tikka Kebab without a grill?

• Yes, you can bake Chicken Tikka Kebabs in an oven using the broil setting. You can also use a stovetop grill pan or skillet for a similar charred effect.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out while grilling?

• Basting the chicken with a little oil or the marinade while grilling helps keep it moist. Avoid overcooking, as this can result in dryness.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives for Chicken Tikka Kebab?

• Yes, you can make “Paneer Tikka” using paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or substitute vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms marinated in a similar spice blend.

What side dishes go well with Chicken Tikka Kebab?

• Naan, roti, rice, or a fresh salad make great accompaniments. You can also serve it with chutneys or yogurt-based sauces for added flavor.

8. Can I freeze Chicken Tikka Kebab?

• Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for later use. Thaw it in the refrigerator before grilling or baking.

Are there any variations to the spice level for Chicken Tikka Kebab?

• Absolutely! Adjust the amount of chili powder or paprika to control the spiciness according to your taste preferences.

Is Chicken Tikka Kebab spicy dish?

• The spice level can be adjusted to your liking. While it traditionally has some heat from spices like chili powder, you can make it milder or hotter based on personal preference.

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