Craving restaurant-style Grilled Chicken Tikka Recipe at home? This globally-loved Indian dish is spicy, smoky, and irresistibly juicy making it a favorite from Mumbai to Manhattan. Whether you’re cooking indoors or firing up an outdoor grill, this step-by-step guide will help you prepare perfect chicken tikka that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Tikka Recipe
- Easy and beginner-friendly
- Uses pantry-friendly spices
- Perfect for BBQs, parties, or weeknight meals
- Includes both Indian and US cooking methods
- Keto and high-protein-friendly
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Tikka Recipe
For the Chicken Marinade
Ingredient | Quantity (Metric) | Quantity (US) |
---|---|---|
Boneless chicken thighs (or breasts) | 500g | 1.1 lbs |
Thick yogurt (curd) | 100g | ½ cup |
Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | 2 tbsp |
Ginger garlic paste | 1 tbsp | 1 tbsp |
Kashmiri red chili powder | 1 tbsp | 1 tbsp |
Garam masala | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
Cumin powder | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
Coriander powder | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
Turmeric powder | ½ tsp | ½ tsp |
Salt | To taste | To taste |
Mustard oil (or olive oil) | 1 tbsp | 1 tbsp |
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Wash and pat dry the chicken pieces.
- Cut into 1.5-inch cubes for even grilling.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, spices, lemon juice, and mustard oil.
- Mix well until it forms a smooth paste.

Step 3: Marinate
- Add the chicken cubes and coat thoroughly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best results).

How to Grill Chicken Tikka
Option 1: Outdoor Charcoal Grill (Best Flavor)
- Preheat grill to medium-high.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill each side for 6–8 minutes or until charred and cooked through.

Option 2: Oven Method
- Preheat oven to 220°C (428°F).
- Place skewers on a foil-lined tray.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway.
- Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for a smoky effect.
Option 3: Stovetop Grill Pan
- Heat a grill pan and brush lightly with oil.
- Cook skewered chicken on medium heat, rotating every few minutes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Tikka Recipe
- Use thigh meat for juicier results.
- Add a dash of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek) for authentic flavor.
- Do not skip marination—it tenderizes the meat and locks in flavors.
- You can add red/orange food color if you want the restaurant-style look.
How to Serve

- With mint-coriander chutney and onion rings
- Stuff into naan or pita for chicken tikka wraps
- Serve over basmati rice with raita
- Add to salads or bowls for a high-protein meal
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | ~280 kcal |
Protein | ~27g |
Fat | ~15g |
Carbs | ~5g |
Fiber | ~1g |
FAQs on Grilled Chicken Tikka Recipe
Q1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but it may be slightly drier. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Q2. What if I don’t have a grill?
Use an oven or stovetop grill pan. You can even air fry it at 200°C (390°F) for 12–15 minutes.
Q3. Is this recipe spicy?
You can adjust the spice level by reducing the chili powder or using paprika instead.
Variations

- Paneer Tikka: Swap chicken for paneer cubes.
- Tandoori Chicken Tikka: Use tandoori masala for a different twist.
- Low-Fat Version: Use Greek yogurt and skinless chicken breast.
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Grilled Chicken Tikka Recipe: Restaurant Style

Make juicy and flavorful Grilled Chicken Tikka Recipe at home with this easy recipe guide. Perfect for any taste buds alike!
Type: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keywords: Grilled Chicken Tikka Recipe
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 280 kcal
Preparation Time: PT4H15M
Cooking Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT4H40M
Recipe Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken
- 100g thick yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
- 1 tbsp Kashmiri red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp mustard oil
Recipe Instructions:
Step-1:
- Cut chicken into cubes and prepare marinade with yogurt, spices, and oil.
Step-2:
- Marinate chicken and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Step-3:
- Grill using preferred method: oven, grill pan, or outdoor grill.
Step-4:
- Serve hot with chutney and salad.
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