When I was little, spice meant cinnamon toast with too much sugar. But now? Big flavor like these Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers has my taste buds doing cartwheels. They’re all over the internet right now smoky, colorful, and made for passing around the table. The marinade alone smells like a warm hug with attitude.
This is a cozy dish that brings the flavor without the fuss. You’ve got tender chicken, thick yogurt, a hit of lemon, and a spice mix that’s pantry-meets-dreamy. It’s like your favorite BBQ skewers met an India-inspired twist. Great for chicken starter recipes or easy dinner recipes Indian style. Full details in the blog!
I first made this on a whim after burning the rice for my third attempt at a chaat recipe (don’t ask). But this one stuck my family crushed every last skewer. Classic flavors, easy steps, and just one secret trick in the oven. I tested it. You’ll love the secret!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Big, bold flavors with minimal effort: The marinade sinks deep into the chicken, giving you tender, smoky, and spicy bites each time.
Beginner-approved: If the thought of “Indian cooking recipes” sounds intimidating, don’t worrythis one’s no trouble at all, even if your spice game isn’t pro-level yet.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re looking for “chicken starter recipes” to impress guests or whipping up “easy dinner recipes Indian” style for the family, this covers it all.
Customizable to taste: Mild or spicy? Add veggie skewers or stick to the chickenit’s your call.
Key Ingredients & the Magic of the Marinade
Let’s talk about what makes these skewers shine. The marinade is where the magic happens. It’s got a mix of pantry spices, fresh ingredients, and creamy yogurt. Here’s everything broken down:
The star of the showcut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Yogurt
Acts as a tenderizer and helps the spices cling to the chicken.
Lemon Juice
Brightens up the flavors and adds a slight tang.
Garam Masala & Cumin
Bring those rich, warm, earthy notes we all know and love.
Kashmiri Chili Powder
A mild chili powder that gives the dish its iconic vibrant color.
Ginger & Garlic
Fresh aromatics that pack a punch in flavor.
Turmeric
For a pop of golden color and a subtle earthy flavor.
Fresh Coriander
Lends a cooling freshness to balance the spices.
Note: If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the chili powder or skip it entirelyyour tandoori skewers will still taste amazing.
Quick Ingredient Swaps
Missing something? Check out these simple swaps:
Original Ingredient
Swap Option
Kashmiri Chili Powder
Paprika (for color without heat)
Chicken Breast
Chicken Thighs (for juicier skewers)
Fresh Coriander
Fresh Parsley (for a similar fresh feel)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers
Ready to roll? Here’s how to bring this dish from marinade to mouthwatering skewers:
Prep the marinade: Grate the ginger and garlic. Mix with the yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and all the spices in a mixing bowl. Stir until smooth.
Add the chicken: Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes and toss it in the marinade. Massage it wellyes, get messyand let it sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better.
Skewer time: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.
Grill or bake: Place the skewers on a preheated grill (or broil in the oven) at high heat. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, rotating halfway through, until the chicken is charred on the outside and juicy inside.
Pro Tip: For that restaurant-quality char, crank up the heat for the last 2 minutes!
How to Serve & Store Your Skewers
These tandoori chicken skewers are perfect for a spread of “Indian dinner ideas” or as a casual appetizer. Here’s how to wrap it up:
Serve hot: Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and a wedge of lemon.
Pair it up: These skewers are delightful with naan, rice, or even a cooling cucumber raita on the side.
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh:
Storage Method
How Long It Keeps
Fridge (in an airtight container)
Up to 3 days
Freezer (wrapped tightly)
Up to 2 months
Reheating Tip: Warm them up in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or toss them back on the grill for a quick refresh.
Troubleshooting: Making It Foolproof
If something doesn’t go as planned, don’t stresshere’s how to get back on track:
Dry chicken: You might’ve overcooked it. Next time, pull it off the grill when the internal temp hits 165°F.
Bland flavor: Double-check the marinadeyou need enough salt and marinade time to let the flavors soak in.
Sticky skewers: If the chicken sticks to the grill, brush the grates with a little oil before cooking.
Remember: Cooking is progress, not perfection. The more you try these delicious “tasty recipes,” the better they’ll get!
Expert Insight: Mastering Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers
Authentic Indian tandoori chicken tikka kebab skewers achieve their signature smoky flavor and tender texture through a balanced marinade of yogurt and spices, which not only enhances taste but also tenderizes the meat. Grilling at high heat seals in juices, making these skewers irresistibly flavorful and moist.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
Mastering My Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers
After several kitchen experiments that left my grill smoky and my spice mix a little off, I finally nailed these Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers. Years of tweaking marination times and balancing flavors have made this recipe a trustworthy favorite for family dinners filled with bold, cozy tastes.
FAQs ( Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers )
What is the best cut of chicken for Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers?
Boneless chicken thighs are ideal for Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers as they stay juicy and tender during grilling. Chicken breast works too, but thighs have more fat content which prevents them from drying out. Cut the chicken into 1-2 inch cubes for even cooking. This makes them perfect chicken starter recipes for your Indian dinner ideas!
How long should I marinate the chicken for tandoori kebabs?
Marinate your chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight (8-12 hours) gives the best results for authentic flavor. The yogurt and spices need time to penetrate the meat and tenderize it properly. Never marinate for more than 24 hours as the acids can make the chicken mushy. This patience makes all the difference in Indian cooking recipes!
Can I make Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers in the oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place the skewers on a lined baking sheet. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through for even browning. While grilling gives that smoky char, the oven method works great for easy dinner recipes Indian style. You can also broil for the last 2-3 minutes to get those delicious charred edges.
What spices are essential for authentic tandoori flavor?
The must-have spices include garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika, and turmeric for color. Red chili powder adds heat while ginger-garlic paste provides aromatic depth. Don’t forget the yogurt base which acts as a tenderizer and helps spices stick to the chicken. These spices are staples in most Indian meals and create that signature tandoori taste we all love.
What are the best side dishes to serve with tandoori chicken tikka kebabs?
Serve with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread, or fresh cucumber mint raita for a cooling contrast. Grilled vegetables like bell peppers and onions complement the smoky flavors perfectly. A simple salad with red onions, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon adds freshness. These combinations make for complete and satisfying Indian cooking recipes that everyone will enjoy!
Wrapping Up Your Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers Adventure
Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers come together in under an hour, delivering juicy, smoky bites with a cozy spice hugperfect for kitchen wins and family smiles. You’ll love how tender and vibrant these skewers turn out, making “easy dinner recipes Indian” style feel totally doable.
For a fun twist, swap chicken breast for thighs or sneak in some bell peppers on the skewers. Leftovers? Pop them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze ‘em for later. A little lemon squeeze before servingthank me later! That’s a trick I picked up from a pro street food vendor.
Now, it’s your turn: did this recipe bring back any family dinners or inspire your own kitchen stories? Snap a pic, share your spicy secrets, or pass it along to someone who needs a little cozy, tasty magic tonight. Trust me, you’ll wanna make it againand again.
Indian Tandoori Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers are a must-have for anyone wanting tasty curry house style Indian food at home. This easy dinner recipes Indian favorite is simple to prepare and perfect as a chicken starter recipes. Enjoy a burst of traditional spices and flavors that bring authentic Indian cooking recipes to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
400g (14 oz) Chicken Breast
35g (Thumb Sized Piece) Ginger
3 Cloves Garlic
½ Tsp Salt
¼ Tsp Ground Cumin
1 Tbsp Kashmiri Chili Powder
1 Tsp Garam Masala
½ Tsp Turmeric
15g (⅓–½ Packed Cup) Fresh Coriander
1 Tbsp Lemon Juice
2 Tbsp Cooking Oil
50g (¼ Cup) Yoghurt
Freshly chopped coriander for Garnish
Instructions
Combine the ginger, garlic, salt, ground cumin, Kashmiri chili powder, garam masala, turmeric, fresh coriander, lemon juice, cooking oil, and yoghurt to prepare the tandoori marinade.
Cut the chicken breast into pieces and marinate them in the prepared tandoori marinade.
Leave the chicken to marinate for 4 hours 10 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Skewer the marinated chicken pieces.
Cook the skewered chicken kebabs for 15 minutes until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and serve hot.
Notes
Marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours helps infuse the flavors deeply
Using Kashmiri chili powder gives the kebabs a vibrant color without excessive heat
Serve with naan or rice for a complete Indian meals experience
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
