Tandoori chicken skewers, a beloved dish from the Indian subcontinent, offer a delightful blend of flavors and aromas that tantalize the senses.
This recipe, featuring marinated chicken pieces infused with a vibrant mix of spices, garlic, and ginger, captures the essence of traditional tandoori cooking. The overnight marination ensures the chicken absorbs all the spices, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites that are perfect for grilling or baking. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or a festive gathering, these skewers will undoubtedly be the star of the meal, bringing an exotic and delicious touch to your table.
Accompanied by fresh naan bread, rice, or a crisp salad, tandoori chicken skewers make for a versatile and satisfying dish. The marinade’s rich yogurt base not only tenderizes the chicken but also imparts a creamy texture that balances the robust spices. Grilling or baking the skewers creates a delightful char, adding a smoky depth to each bite. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a wonderful way to experience the vibrant culinary traditions of India, bringing warmth and spice to your kitchen and delighting your taste buds with every mouthful.
Ingredients
- 500 gram chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 medium red onion (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons tandoori masala spice mix
- 1 teaspoon cumin (ground)
- 1 teaspoon coriander (ground)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color)
- salt (to taste)
- black pepper (freshly ground to taste)
- vegetable oil (for grilling)
- wooden skewers (soaked in water)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, chopped onions, minced garlic, minced ginger, lemon juice, tandoori masala spice mix, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a zip-top bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor.
Prepare the Skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, evenly distributing the pieces. Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking
Cooking
- Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and nicely charred on the outside. If Baking
Serving
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill or oven. Serve hot with fresh naan bread, rice, or a salad. Optionally, garnishwith any left over red onion or chopped spring / green onion and lemon wedges before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Per serving
- Energy: 285 kcal / 1191 kJ
- Fat: 15.5 g
- Protein: 25.7 g
- Carbs: 9.65 g
