Jul 14 2026

Chicken Tikka Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves4

Make Chicken Tikka Recipe in just 1h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Marinade

Method

Marinade

  1. 1

    Prep chicken

    Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut into 1.5–2 inch bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Make marinade

    In a medium bowl combine the plain yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, lemon juice and vegetable oil. Whisk in garam masala, ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, salt and black pepper until smooth and evenly combined.

  3. 3

    Marinate chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, turning to coat thoroughly so every piece is well covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; ideally 4–8 hours. For best flavor, marinate up to 12 hours but not longer than 24 hours.

Cook

  1. 4

    Preheat

    If using a grill: preheat to medium-high (about 425°F/220°C). If using an oven: preheat broiler and set an oven rack 6 inches from the heat source. Alternatively you can use a heavy skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.

  2. 5

    Thread or skewer (optional)

    If using skewers, thread 4–6 pieces per skewer leaving small gaps between pieces so heat circulates. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading.

  3. 6

    Cook chicken

    Brush the grill grates or pan lightly with oil. Place skewers or individual pieces on the grill, broiler rack or pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning once, until the exterior is charred in spots and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using a broiler, broil 3–5 minutes per side watching closely to avoid burning.

  4. 7

    Rest

    Remove chicken from heat, brush lightly with the reserved oil if desired, and let rest for 5 minutes so juices redistribute.

To Serve

  1. 8

    Transfer chicken to a platter. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and scatter sliced red onion around. Serve with lemon wedges and naan or basmati rice on the side. Squeeze lemon over chicken just before eating.

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