Name: Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts); 1 cup plain greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground coriander; 1.5 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or kashmiri chili powder; salt to taste; 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or avocado)

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Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Tikka is a mouthwatering dish that brings the bold flavors of Indian cuisine right into your kitchen. With tender pieces of chicken marinated in a rich blend of spices and yogurt, this dish is perfect for a satisfying meal. The air fryer cooks the chicken to juicy perfection, achieving that coveted charred finish without the need for a grill. It’s a fantastic option for those craving something different yet comforting.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)

I still remember the first time I tried Chicken Tikka at a local Indian restaurant. The aromatic spices, the tender chicken, and the tangy chutneys—they all melded together in a way that made my taste buds dance. Fast forward, and I was determined to recreate that experience at home. Enter the air fryer, which not only makes this dish healthier but also quicker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. I’m super excited to share this recipe with you; you won’t want to miss out on the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep in just 10 minutes and cook in about 24 minutes; perfect for weeknight dinners.
Irresistible Flavor: Marinade with yogurt and spices creates a flavor explosion that’s both savory and slightly tangy.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors from the spices make this dish visually stunning—great for impressing guests!
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a main course, serve it with rice, or even in wraps for a delicious lunch.
Diet-Friendly Options: Low-carb and packed with protein, making it a healthy choice without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1.5 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts): Tender chicken is essential for the best texture. Thighs offer extra juiciness, while breasts are leaner.
1 cup plain Greek yogurt: This not only tenderizes the chicken but adds a creamy tang. You can substitute regular yogurt if needed.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds brightness to the marinade. Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled can work in a pinch.
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste: A flavor powerhouse; you can make your own or find it pre-made in the store.
1 teaspoon turmeric: Provides a beautiful golden color and earthy flavor to the dish.
1.5 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds depth and warmth—don’t skip this!
2 teaspoons ground coriander: This gives a lovely citrusy undertone and pairs beautifully with the chicken.
1.5 teaspoons garam masala: A signature spice blend for depth; you can adjust this to your preference.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder: For a subtle smoky flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors. Use sea salt for a richer taste.
1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or avocado): Helps in achieving a nice crispness without overpowering flavors.

How to Make Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)

Cut Chicken: Begin by cutting your 1.5 lbs of boneless chicken into 1.5-inch pieces. This size ensures even cooking while maintaining juiciness.

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1.5 teaspoons of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of ground coriander, 1.5 teaspoons of garam masala, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat everyone evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. This tenderizes the chicken and infuses incredible flavor.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F. Preheating helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Arrange the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking. You may need to do this in batches depending on your air fryer size.

Cook the Chicken: Air fry the chicken for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is ready when it’s cooked through and has a nice charred look on the edges.

Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps lock in juices and enhances the flavor before serving.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Chicken Tikka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Note that the texture may change slightly, but a quick reheat will bring back some of that fresh crispiness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Check doneness with a meat thermometer: chicken should reach at least 165°F.
If using frozen chicken, thaw it completely before marinating.
Don’t skip marinating for the best flavor; even 30 minutes makes a difference.
Adjust spices according to your taste preference; make it as mild or spicy as you like.
For extra texture, try adding some chopped vegetables to the air fryer during the last few minutes of cooking.

Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Tikka brings you all the flavors of traditional Indian chicken dishes without the fuss and extra calories. With a balance of just the right spices and a gorgeous golden color, this dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Feel free to experiment with additional spices or serve it alongside your favorite sides. It’s always a delight to gather around good food and great company—so, fire up your air fryer and savor this delicious journey!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken wings for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken wings can be a great alternative. Just note that they may require a little extra cooking time due to their bone content—aim for about 15-18 minutes at 375°F, flipping halfway.

Can I make Chicken Tikka with tofu or paneer?

Yes! For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or paneer. Be sure to press tofu to remove excess moisture and cut it into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

What should I serve with Chicken Tikka?

This dish pairs perfectly with basmati rice, naan, or even a fresh cucumber salad. For a complete meal, consider adding some raita or chutney on the side; they complement the spices wonderfully.

Can I adjust the spices for a milder flavor?

Definitely! If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder. You can also omit them entirely if you’d like a milder, creamy flavor profile instead.

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