Chicken Tikka
Pakistani cuisine is renowned around the world for its intense and exotic flavors. At the heart of this cuisine is chicken tikka - a succulent and savory dish that has become an icon in Pakistani food. Whether it’s a family dinner or a grand feast, chicken tikka is always a crowd favorite.
This classic recipe is simple enough to make at home and packs a punch of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. Chicken tikka is a dish that originated in Punjab, a region that straddles both India and Pakistan. Today, it’s a staple in both countries' cuisines and is enjoyed all over the world.
The dish consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken that have been marinated in yogurt and spices before being grilled to perfection over an open flame. The marinade is what gives the chicken its distinct flavor, and there are countless variations of this recipe, with each chef putting their own spin on it.
The most common ingredients in a chicken tikka marinade are: yogurt, turmeric, coriander, cumin, garlic, and garam masala - an aromatic blend of spices that gives the dish its signature flavor. The yogurt helps to tenderize the meat, while the spices infuse it with a rich, earthy flavor. Other ingredients that are sometimes added to the marinade include ginger, chili powder, paprika, and lime juice.
Once the chicken has been marinated, it’s threaded onto skewers and grilled over high heat until charred on the outside and tender on the inside. Traditionally, chicken tikka is cooked over an open flame, but you can also use a grill or even a stovetop griddle if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
Serving suggestions for chicken tikka are as varied as the recipe itself. It can be served with a side of rice, naan bread, or even in a wrap. You can also pair it with a simple cucumber salad, a dollop of yogurt, or some pickled onions to balance out the flavors.
In addition to being delicious, chicken tikka is also a healthy option for those looking to eat clean. Chicken is a lean protein source that is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, while the yogurt-based marinade is a great source of calcium and probiotics.
Whether you’re new to Pakistani cuisine or a seasoned pro, chicken tikka is a dish that is sure to delight. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit any taste preferences or dietary restrictions, making it an excellent choice for family dinners, potlucks, and even meal prep. So why not give it a try and see why chicken tikka is truly an iconic dish in Pakistani cuisine!
Ingredients:
1 kg boneless chicken, cut into pieces 2 tablespoons ginger garlic paste 1 tablespoon red chili powder 1 tablespoon cumin powder 1 tablespoon coriander powder 1 tablespoon garam masala powder 1 tablespoon turmeric powder 1 tablespoon salt 1 cup plain yogurt Juice of 1 lemon 1/4 cup oil Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 1 hour
Instructions:
-
In a large bowl, mix together ginger garlic paste, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, turmeric powder, salt, plain yogurt, lemon juice, and oil.
-
Add chicken pieces to the bowl and mix well, ensuring that each piece is well-coated with the marinade.
-
Cover the bowl with a plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
-
When you are ready to grill the chicken, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
-
Thread the chicken onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece.
-
Grill the chicken skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice charred color.
-
Serve hot with some mint chutney and lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy!