Description
These Chicken Tikka Kebab Skewers are savory bites of marinated chicken and colorful peppers, perfect for beginner cooks and family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1–1.5 inch pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1½ teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch squares
- 1 yellow onion, cut into chunks
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wood, soak 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk yogurt, lemon juice, oil, garlic, ginger, and all the spices until smooth. Taste a small spoonful (optional) and adjust salt or lemon.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, coating thoroughly. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour, ideally 3–4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat and prepare: If grilling, preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. If oven roasting, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Thread the skewers: Alternate chicken pieces with bell pepper and onion on each skewer, leaving a little space between pieces for even heat.
- Cook the skewers: For grilling, oil grates and cook 10–12 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes until charred at edges and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For oven, bake 12–15 minutes, then broil 1–2 minutes to develop char.
- Rest and serve: Let skewers rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lemon wedges.
Notes
For tender, flavorful bites, marinate for 4–8 hours. Ensure to cut chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Indian