Name: Chicken Tikka
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 130 min
Ingredients: 3 lbs chicken breast (skinless boneless); 250 ml plain yogurt; 60 ml lemon juice; 60 ml vegetable oil; 6 cloves garlic (chopped); 1 piece ginger (chopped, 5 cm); 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 pinch Salt (to taste); 1 pinch ground pepper (to taste)

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Chicken Tikka, a beloved dish originating from the Indian subcontinent, has garnered worldwide acclaim for its tantalizing flavours and aromatic spices. This culinary masterpiece consists of succulent pieces of chicken marinated in a tantalizing blend of yogurt and spices before being grilled to perfection.

The marinade includes a combination of yogurt, ginger, garlic, lemon juice, and an array of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. This infusion of flavours not only tenderizes the chicken but also imparts a rich and complex taste that delights the palate. You can adapt the spices according to your tastes and preferences.

What sets chicken tikka apart is its cooking method. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor, (cylindrical clay oven), the intense heat results in juicy, charred chicken with a smoky aroma. However, it can also be prepared on a barbecue grill or in a conventional oven, maintaining its distinctive flavour profile.

Chicken tikka is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various forms. It can be served as an appetizer, accompanied by mint chutney and sliced onions. Alternatively as the star of a main course, paired with fragrant basmati rice or warm naan bread. Its popularity has even led to innovative adaptations, such as chicken tikka pizza and sandwiches.

Whether enjoyed as a street food snack or a gourmet meal, chicken tikka continues to captivate food enthusiasts. It’s understandable with bold flavours and culinary flair, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the Indian subcontinent.

The dish is popular in both India and Pakistan and definitely in the UK. The word tikka means “bits” or “pieces”. It is also a chicken dish served in Punjabi cuisine. The Kashmiri version of the dish, is grilled over red-hot coals, and does not always contain boneless pieces. Repeatedly brush the chicken with ghee to increase its flavour. It is served with green coriander and tamarind chutney, onion rings and lemon.

Chicken Tikka

This has to be one of the most popular takeaway recipes around. So easy to cook at home you wont need to but in again.

4.75 from 80 votes

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Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: Chicken, Chicken Tikka, Dairy, Spice, Vegetables

Cook Time: 10

Total Time: 2 10

Servings: people

Calories: 563kcal

Ingredients

3 lbs chicken breast skinless boneless
250 ml plain yogurt
60 ml lemon juice
60 ml vegetable oil
6 cloves garlic chopped
1 piece ginger chopped, 5 cm
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 pinch Salt to taste
1 pinch ground pepper to taste

Instructions

Cut each chicken breast crosswise into 3 pieces and place in a mixing bowl.
3 lbs chicken breast
Combine the remaining ingredients in an electric blender or food processor and process until smooth.
250 ml plain yogurt, 60 ml lemon juice, 60 ml vegetable oil, 6 cloves garlic, 1 piece ginger, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 pinch Salt, 1 pinch ground pepper
Pour over the chicken and toss to coat thoroughly.
Let stand at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours.
Sauté the chicken pieces in small batches in a heavy skillet over high heat until golden brown on all sides, about 10 minutes, adding more marinade to the skillet to prevent sticking if necessary.
Serve immediately