Get ready for the ultimate party appetizer or easy weeknight dinner! These Chicken Tikka Skewers are bursting with the robust, spicy flavors of India, made incredibly simple with a store-bought tikka masala paste. The chicken is marinated in a yogurt-based sauce, ensuring every bite is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. To balance the spice, we’re whipping up a zesty and cooling cilantro-lime dipping sauce that provides the perfect tangy contrast. It’s a crowd-pleasing combination that looks impressive but is secretly a breeze to make!
Ingredients
• Chicken Tikka
• 14 oz / 400 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ½ cup / 120 ml full-fat yogurt
• 3 tablespoons all-natural Indian tikka masala curry paste
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• Cilantro-Lime Dipping Sauce
• ¾ cup / 180 ml full-fat yogurt
• ½ cup / 120 ml mayonnaise
• Zest and juice of 2 limes
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• Stevia to taste (optional)
• Equipment & Garnish
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 15 minutes
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes, yogurt, tikka masala paste, lemon juice, and salt. Stir until the chicken is evenly and generously coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Make the Dipping Sauce: While the chicken marinates, prepare the sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mayonnaise, lime zest and juice, chopped cilantro, black pepper, and salt. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F / 205°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Thread 2 or 3 pieces of marinated chicken onto each soaked bamboo skewer. Arrange the skewers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Cook and Serve: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through with no pink in the center. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with the chilled dipping sauce. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information
• Serving Size: 1 serving (recipe makes 6)
• Calories: 285 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 19g
• Net Carbohydrates: 4g
• Please note that is an estimate and may vary based on the specific used.
Pro Tips
• For a smokier, charred flavor, switch the oven to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leaving a small amount of space between chicken pieces helps them cook more evenly and develop a better color.
• This recipe works beautifully on a grill. Cook over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred.
• The dipping sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. The flavors will actually deepen and improve as it sits in the refrigerator.
FAQ
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken for this recipe
A: For the best results, marinate the chicken in the yogurt and tikka masala paste mixture for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat and ensures it stays tender and juicy during cooking.
Q: Can I grill these chicken tikka skewers instead of baking them
A: Yes, these skewers are perfect for the grill. Cook them over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
Q: Can I make the cilantro-lime dipping sauce ahead of time
A: Absolutely. The dipping sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually deepen and improve as it sits.
Q: What is the best way to get a charred flavor in the oven
A: To get a smokier, charred flavor similar to a tandoor oven, switch your oven to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Be sure to watch the skewers closely to prevent them from burning.
