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Flavorful Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers Easy Yogurt Marinade Recipe

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Juicy and tender tandoori chicken tikka skewers marinated in a tangy yogurt and spice blend, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch (4 cm) chunks
  • 1 cup (240 ml) plain whole-milk yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or mustard oil
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Sliced onions and cucumber (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Cut into roughly 1.5-inch chunks for even cooking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, garam masala, Kashmiri chili powder, salt, and vegetable oil. Whisk until smooth and vibrant.
  3. Add chicken chunks to the marinade and toss until every piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 6 hours or overnight.
  4. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving space between pieces.
  5. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
  6. Place skewers on grill or grill pan. Cook 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs. Baste with leftover marinade once or twice during cooking. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove skewers from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges, sliced onions, and cucumber.

Notes

Marinate chicken at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor and tenderness. Use thighs for juicier results. Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning. Control grill heat to avoid charring. Let chicken rest after cooking to redistribute juices. For dairy-free, substitute yogurt with coconut yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: tandoori chicken, chicken tikka, yogurt marinade, Indian recipe, grilled chicken skewers, easy dinner, spicy chicken

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