Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers: 20 Min Flavor Blitz

Name: Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers: 20 Min Flavor Blitz
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-488867H17M10S
Total time: PT-488867H17M10S
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs (or breasts); 1 cup plain yogurt; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons tandoori masala; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Skewers (wooden or metal)

by Fenna Saul

September 10, 2025

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Tandoori chicken tikka skewers have become my go-to for impressing guests, and honestly, for satisfying my own cravings for something truly flavorful. I remember the first time I tried authentic tandoori chicken tikka at a local festival – the smoky aroma and the tender, spice-infused chicken were absolutely unforgettable. I’ve since perfected my own recipe for marinated chicken tikka skewers, and the vibrant color alone makes them a showstopper. They’re incredibly juicy with just the right amount of spice, making them perfect for any occasion. Get ready to wow your friends and family with these amazing skewers; let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers

Incredibly juicy and tender chicken every time.
Bursting with authentic Indian spices and bold flavors.
Perfect for grilling, parties, or a weeknight dinner.
Easy to prepare with a simple, flavorful marinade.
These marinated chicken tikka skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The vibrant color makes them visually stunning.
Marinated chicken tikka skewers are versatile and pair well with many sides.
A truly flavorful tandoori chicken experience.

Ingredients for Authentic Tandoori Chicken Tikka

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating a truly delicious tandoori chicken tikka marinade.

2 lbs boneless chicken thighs – I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work too!
1 cup plain yogurt – This is the base of our marinade and helps tenderize the chicken.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil – For richness and to help the spices adhere.
3 tablespoons lemon juice – Adds a bright, tangy counterpoint to the spices.
2 tablespoons tandoori masala – This is the heart of the flavor, a blend of aromatic spices.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds earthy depth.
1 teaspoon ground coriander – Offers a warm, citrusy note.
1 teaspoon garam masala – A fragrant finishing spice blend.
1 teaspoon paprika – For a touch of color and mild sweetness.
1 teaspoon turmeric powder – Contributes to the vibrant color and adds a subtle peppery flavor.
1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
1 tablespoon minced garlic – For that pungent, savory kick.
1 tablespoon minced ginger – Adds a warm, spicy zing.
Fresh cilantro for garnish – For a pop of freshness and color.
Skewers (wooden or metal) – Soak wooden ones to prevent burning.

How to Make Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers

Making these flavorful skewers is easier than you think! The secret is in the marinade and a hot grill.

Step 1: Start by preheating your grill to a medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). If you’re using wooden skewers, now’s the time to give them a good soak in water for about 30 minutes. This little trick prevents them from burning to a crisp on the grill.
Step 2: While the grill heats up, prepare your chicken. Cut your boneless chicken thighs into nice, bite-sized pieces. In a generous mixing bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, vegetable oil, lemon juice, and all those wonderful spices: tandoori masala, cumin, coriander, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, salt, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Mix it all until you have a smooth, fragrant paste.
Step 3: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. I like to use my hands for this part, gently tossing the chicken until every piece is thoroughly coated in that gorgeous, spicy mixture. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator. For a good flavor boost, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, 2-4 hours is even better for deeper, more intense flavors.
Step 4: Now, let’s get those skewers ready! Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your soaked wooden or metal skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly; leave a little space between each piece. This allows the heat to circulate evenly, ensuring your chicken cooks through beautifully and gets those coveted grill marks.
Step 5: Carefully place the loaded skewers onto the hot grill grates. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning them every few minutes. You want that chicken to be cooked through, tender, and beautifully charred in spots. A meat thermometer is your best friend here – aim for an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Once perfectly cooked, remove the chicken tikka skewers on grill from the heat. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is extra juicy. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like, and enjoy the amazing aroma!

Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers: 20 Min Flavor Blitz - Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers - additional detail

Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers Cooking Tips

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure these skewers turn out perfectly every time. Following these tips will elevate your chicken tikka skewers from good to absolutely amazing.

For the absolute best tandoori chicken skewers, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay incredibly moist and juicy, even with high heat.
Don’t skip the marinating time! At least 30 minutes is good, but 2-4 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator allows the flavors to really penetrate the chicken.
If you’re grilling, make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the marinated chicken from sticking. You can find more grilling tips at Serious Eats.
Keep an eye on them while they cook; chicken thighs cook relatively quickly and can go from perfectly done to dry in just a few minutes.

What’s the secret to perfect juicy tandoori chicken tikka skewers?

The secret lies in the yogurt-based marinade and using chicken thighs. The yogurt tenderizes the meat beautifully, and thighs have more fat to keep them moist, resulting in incredibly flavorful tandoori chicken tikka skewers. For more on marinades, check out this guide to marinating meat.

Can I make tandoori chicken tikka skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers just before you’re ready to grill for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with easy tandoori chicken tikka?

A common mistake is overcooking the chicken, which makes it dry. Another is not marinating long enough, leading to less flavor. Also, ensure your grill is hot enough before adding the skewers to get those nice char marks without the chicken sticking. For more on food safety, visit the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.

Best Ways to Serve Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers

These flavorful skewers are incredibly versatile! I love serving them as a vibrant appetizer at parties, perhaps alongside some cooling raita or a fresh cucumber salad. For a more substantial meal, these Indian chicken tikka skewers are fantastic alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. You could also create a delicious platter with a side of mint chutney and some grilled vegetables for a complete and satisfying experience. They’re truly a dish that shines no matter how you present them!

Nutrition Facts for Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers

When you’re enjoying these flavorful skewers, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting. Each serving of these delicious Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers offers a good balance of macronutrients.

Calories: 320 kcal
Fat: 18g
Protein: 30g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers: 20 Min Flavor Blitz - Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers

Once these delicious Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers are cooked and cooled, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their fantastic flavor and texture. If you have any leftovers, let them cool down completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, uncooked marinated chicken skewers can be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. These can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw frozen skewers overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

To reheat, I find the best method is to warm them gently in the oven at around 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps keep them from drying out. You can also quickly reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers

What is tandoori chicken tikka?

Tandoori chicken tikka refers to marinated chunks of chicken, typically cooked in a tandoor (a traditional clay oven), which gives it a distinct smoky flavor and characteristic char. The marinade is usually yogurt-based with a blend of spices like tandoori masala, ginger, and garlic. It’s a beloved dish in Indian cuisine known for its vibrant color and tender texture.

Can I make spicy chicken tikka skewers?

Absolutely! To make your chicken tikka skewers marinated with a spicy kick, simply increase the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper in the marinade. You can also add finely chopped green chilies for an extra layer of heat. Taste a tiny bit of the marinade before adding the chicken to gauge the spice level and adjust accordingly.

How do I get that authentic smoky flavor without a tandoor?

You can achieve a lovely smoky flavor on your grilled tandoori chicken skewers by using a hot grill and allowing the chicken to char slightly. For an even more intense smoky taste, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to your marinade, or after grilling, place the cooked skewers in a covered dish with a small piece of burning charcoal drizzled with a tiny bit of oil for a few minutes. This mimics the traditional tandoor flavor beautifully. For more on achieving smoky flavors, explore Food & Wine’s tips.

What is the best way to serve tandoori chicken tikka skewers as an appetizer?

These Indian chicken tikka skewers are fantastic as an appetizer! Serve them hot off the grill with a side of cooling mint-yogurt chutney or a tangy tamarind sauce. A small bed of mixed greens or a scattering of fresh cilantro can also add visual appeal. They’re perfect for parties because they’re easy to handle and always a hit with guests. You can find more appetizer ideas at The Recipefy.

Variations of Tandoori Chicken Tikka Skewers You Can Try

Beyond the classic recipe, there are so many fun ways to customize these flavorful skewers! Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or just want to experiment, these variations are fantastic. Consider making these chicken tikka skewers appetizer options for your next gathering.

Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the chicken for paneer cheese, firm tofu, or even hearty mushrooms like portobellos. Marinate them just as you would the chicken, and they’ll absorb all those delicious tandoori spices beautifully.
Oven-Baked Goodness: If grilling isn’t an option, fear not! You can achieve wonderfully tender and flavorful results by baking these skewers. Arrange them on a baking sheet and cook in an oven preheated to 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, ramp up the spice! Add extra chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even some finely chopped green chilies to the marinade. This creates a wonderfully fiery version of the classic.
Lemon-Herb Twist: Enhance the fresh flavors by adding finely chopped fresh herbs like mint or parsley directly into the marinade along with the chicken. A little extra lemon zest can also brighten the overall taste profile.